Physical Activity - the benefits

Physical Activity - the benefits

Weight control

Sometimes body weight can just creep up. If your body doesn't burn up all the energy it takes in, then the excess energy turns to fat. This can be controlled. The two physical ways to combat weight gain are to:

  • Reduce energy in to the body (less kilojoules from food and drink)
  • Increase energy out (increase physical activity). Sometimes becoming more active is easier than giving up unhealthy favourite foods.

Sometimes there are emotional reasons for eating or drinking. Talking with a professional counselor, such as a psychologist, can help you take control.

Strength

Physical activity can do more than just help control weight. Your muscles, your heart, and other parts of your body grow stronger and more efficient when they are called upon regularly for the effort required in being active. In this way strength, skill and endurance are developed.

A recent study showed that the people with higher cardio respiratory fitness were less likely to die of heart disease - regardless of their bodyweight.1

Weight-bearing exercise prevents the loss of minerals from bones. In this way regular exercises such as walking, jogging, aerobic dancing and tennis help to maintain strong bones and prevent osteoporosis.

Back problems and poor posture can be avoided through physical activity that improves flexibility in the muscles of the lower back, and strengthens stomach and back muscles. Pilates and yoga are especially good for this.

Improving mental health

Mental health can be helped by physical activity too. Psychological benefits that are well connected to physical activity include:

  • A greater sense of well being
  • Increased self esteem
  • Decreased anxiety and depression
  • Access to social networks

Physical activity helps you relax and improves your ability to cope with stress. Sleeping is improved too - which further enhances your ability to handle everyday challenges.

As fitness improves, all activity becomes easier and you're more likely to go out for a hike, ride a bike, or enjoy a game with the kids.
Before starting any new exercise program it is always advisable to talk with your doctor.

Sources:
1. Diab Care 2005;28:391-397: a study of more than 19,000 Canadian men.
2. NEJM 2002;346:393-403.

Did you know?

Aerobic exercise has many benefits


  • Increases good cholesterol (HDLs)
  • Decreases bad cholesterol (LDLs)
  • Helps prevent blood clots from clogging arteries, so avoiding strokes
  • Helps keep blood pressure normal

"With my own coping strategies - my bike riding, diet and physical health, my peer support network, my relationships, my doctors, my medication, I am able to honestly say that I am just as capable of achieving my goals as is anyone else."
- Stephen
Read Stephen's story here