According to this article in the Islington Gazette, Islington men die younger on average than anywhere else in the capital, thanks to the stress and poverty associated with inner-city living. The average life-expectancy in the borough of 75.1 years is lower than anywhere else in London. What can you do locally to try and improve your level of general health?

Keeping Fit

One of the main reasons cited for the poor overall level of health in Islington is the wide divide between rich and poor, as it can cost more to have a healthier lifestyle. In terms of fitness though, this need not be the case as we have a wide range of subsidised local amenities designed for the purpose of getting fit.

The Aquaterra trust is a charitable organisation that runs leisure facilities up and down the borough, including swimming pools, squash and tennis courts, gyms and football fields, all offering sessions and membership deals at great prices that are far lower than private gyms. They include the recently saved Sobell Leisure Centre.

The equipment in all the Aquaterra facilities is generally of a pretty high standard, and there are plenty of options regardless of where in the borough you're based.

If you're feeling the pinch, there are some great deals on at the moment, including a free December deal for the Aquaterra membership scheme

For joggers, there are plenty of great, picturesque circuits around the

Islington area. Highbury Fields is a favourite hotspot for al-fresco

exercise freaks of all types, and the circumference Emirates Stadium is

also a good place to run!

Chilling Out

Stress is often ignored as a cause of illness and premature death, as we're all so focused on getting on in life and men in particular tend to forget to take it easy from time to time.

 

A great way to unwind and de-stress is a sauna and steam session, and you might be surprised to discover how affordable it is to do both at Highbury Pool. Check with pool staff about men's and women's only sessions.

If you'd like to try the more pampering experience of a spa, either with a partner or alone, Ki Mantra urban spa is a great place to chill out. Come to their Feng-Shui designed townhouse in Camden Passage, and choose from a menu of calming treatments and indulge in a little me-time right on your doorstep.