Physical Activity - why bother?

Besides helping to manage body weight and body shape, regular physical activity reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, breast cancer, colon cancer, depression, anxiety and stress. It can also improve musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain and osteoporosis. Plus it can increase social interaction and provide recreational enjoyment. There's good evidence that regular physical activity can also contribute to reducing violence, traffic congestion, and pollution. It can save money too.

So says the World Health Organisation (WHO).* They recommend moderate intensity activity for at least 30 minutes a day. The good news is that this can be done in 10 minute segments, and brisk walking counts.

Before starting any new exercise program it is always advisable to talk with your doctor.

*WHO Assembly, Geneva, Switzerland, May 2004 - see www.who.int

**Adapted from: Developing an Active Australia: a framework for physical activity and health (1988); UK Meaningful Day program, Eli Lilly and Company

Physical activity makes you feel good**

Physical activity does more than just burn kilojoules. There's quite a lot of evidence to show that even small amounts of physical activity can help these things:

Feelings of personal achievement
Distraction from negative thoughts and feelings
Combat boredom
Meet people
Give structure to the day

"When I work out I feel better about myself, like it increases my self-esteem. I've been able to do something for thirty minutes or an hour that really helps my body."
- Tom