Physical activity and health

Definitions

Physical activity: Any activity that involves body movement and burns calories. Includes everyday tasks like walking to work or school as well as sports and exercise.
Exercise: A subset of physical activity. Planned, structured and repetitive body movements performed to improve or maintain physical fitness.
Health: The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines health as complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

Improves Cardiovascular Health: Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes by improving heart rate and lowering blood pressure.
Weight Management: Physical activity helps decrease the excess calories that can lead to weight gain.
Improves Mental Health: Physical activity releases endorphins - natural mood lifters.
Increases Longevity: Regular physical activity can increase life expectancy.

Aerobic Activity: Referred to as “cardio”, includes activities like cycling, running, or swimming.
Muscle-strengthening Activity: Exercises specifically aimed at strengthening muscles, such as weight lifting or resistance exercises.
Bone-strengthening Activity: Activities that produce a force on the bones that aids their growth and strength. Examples include hopping, skipping, or weight-bearing sports such as netball or football.
Flexibility Exercises: These exercises improve the range of motion of muscles and joints. Example includes stretches or yoga.

According to guidelines by the Department of Health and Social Care, children and adolescents should engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day.
Adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week, in addition to strength exercises on 2 or more days each week.

Lack of Time: One of the most frequently reported barriers to physical activity.
Lack of Motivation: Many people struggle with the motivation to start and maintain a physical activity routine.
Cost: Some forms of physical activity, such as gym memberships or fitness classes, might be unaffordable for some people.
Access: Lack of nearby facilities or safe places to exercise can be a barrier.
Health Conditions: People with chronic illnesses or disabilities may face additional challenges engaging in regular physical activity.

Making Physical Activity Enjoyable: Engaging in activities that one enjoys can increase the likelihood of maintaining them.
Goal Setting: Setting realistic and achievable goals can motivate people to get active.
Social Support: Support from family or friends can encourage physical activity.
Professional Guidance: Working with a physical trainer or a physiotherapist might be beneficial for some people.
Building Physical Activity into Daily Routine: Taking the stairs instead of the lift, or walking or cycling for short journeys, are simple ways to increase activity levels.

Public Health Campaigns: Campaigns such as “Change4Life” and “This Girl Can” aim to raise awareness about the importance of physical activity.
Legislation: Legislation can encourage physical activity by promoting safe and accessible environments for activity.
School Curriculum: Physical Education (PE) is a compulsory part of the school curriculum to ensure children develop physically.
Funding: Local facilities and clubs often receive government funding to help make physical activity accessible and affordable.