Monday, April 21, 2008

Health Promotion: Physical Activity

As a country, the citizens of the United States are sedentary (lazy). Less than half of us meet the minimum recommendation of 30 minutes of physical activity each day and our health is at risk. Being physically active every day is an important goal for all of us to achieve thus providing ample reason for Health Promotion activities to focus, in part, on physical activity.

How much physical activity do I need?

  • 30 minutes each day for overall health and to decrease risk for diseases like heart disease, cancer and diabetes
  • 60 minutes each day for managing body weight and preventing weight gain
  • 60 - 90 minutes each day for sustaining weight loss

How do I fit this much physical activity into my day?

Some people set aside time to work out at fitness centers, take classes or go on hikes or bike rides with friends and family. Others find ways to fit physical activity into their daily routines like:

  • Walking or biking to the bus stop or all the way to work
  • Walking at lunch time
  • Holding walking meetings
  • Walking or biking to run errands, go to the library, park, or visiting friends
  • Walking the dog
  • What works best for you?

Health Promotion: Ten Reasons For Physical Activity

  1. It’s one of the best things we can do for our health.
  2. It’s a stress-reducer.
  3. It burns calories!
  4. We’ll probably sleep better.
  5. It keeps our bones and joints in good shape if we don’t overdo it.
  6. We’re less likely to develop diabetes, heart disease or cancer.
  7. We’re less likely to gain unwanted weight.
  8. We may get sick less often.
  9. It can improve our mood and relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
  10. What is your best reason?

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Great article. Thanks for sharing.