Free NHS app could help you lose weight without paying for gym

Free NHS app could help you lose weight without paying for gymThe 'little-known' NHS app encourages people to improve their health through daily brisk walking without needing gym equipmentCommentsNewsAmber O'Connor Money and Lifestyle reporter U35s08:59, 08 Apr 2026View 2 ImagesThe NHS app has impressed several reviewers (stock photo)(Image: Getty)A free NHS app could help Brits shed pounds, boost their mood and get more active, without spending a penny on a gym membership. The little-known app motivates users to exercise more regularly and requires no gym equipment. All you need to get started is a comfortable pair of shoes and your mobile phone.‌Available on both the App Store and Google Play, the NHS Active 10 app helps people improve their mental and physical wellbeing by encouraging them to walk more frequently. It's founded on the principle that a brisk 10-minute daily walk, otherwise known as your 'active 10', is linked to a wide range of health benefits.‌The app description explains: "We all know how important it is to be active. The good news is you don’t have to go to the gym or start expensive fitness programmes, walking briskly counts too!‌"Just ten minutes of brisk walking every day can get your heart pumping and can make you feel more energetic, as well as lowering your risk of serious illnesses like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Going for a brisk walk is a great way to clear your head and improve your mood."Active 10's are simple to fit into your day, from taking the dog out to going for a lunchtime walk, there are lots of opportunities to include brisk walking into your daily routine."View 2 ImagesThe app encourages people to go for brisk walks (stock photo)(Image: Getty)To help users achieve their objectives, the app monitors every step and the number of brisk minutes walked, and rewards each brisk minute completed. There's a pace checker to help users determine whether they're wa...