A QUARTER of over 55s have done no exercise since the start of the first lockdown, research has shown.

The Nuffield Health Healthier Nation Index has shown that a quarter of over 55s have done no exercise at all since the start of the first lockdown, while 41 per cent of those surveyed say their mental health has worsened.

Based on a comprehensive survey of just over 8,000 Brits, the study also showed that 73 per cent are failing to meet NHS recommendations on exercise with successive lockdowns leading to unhealthy habits.

Now, the ambassador for the Healthier Nation Index, Judy Murray OBE has said the results are "deeply worrying".

“Good physical and mental health are intrinsically linked and the Index shows that the pandemic has had a significant impact not only on the nation’s mental health – but also on our ability to exercise.

"The focus must now be on helping people get active to make sure we don’t store up problems for the future.

"We need to make sure everyone has the tools they need to look after their mental and physical health, and everyone should see 2021 as a critical opportunity to prioritise their health and wellbeing."