Importance of Physical Activity
Physical activity refers to any movement of the body that uses energy, including activities like walking, cycling, and participating in sports. It plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and well-being. Engaging in regular physical activity helps reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. It also supports mental health by improving mood and reducing anxiety and depression. Additionally, physical activity enhances muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance, promoting better physical fitness. It can improve cognitive function and boost energy levels, making daily tasks easier. Overall, incorporating physical activity into daily life not only contributes to physical health but also fosters a positive lifestyle, leading to a happier and more fulfilled life. At ROYAL MEDICAL & EQUIPMENT TRADING, we are dedicated to supporting this active lifestyle by supplying essential medical equipment that promotes health and well-being.
Key Facts
● Regular physical activity is very important for our physical and mental health. It helps adults prevent and manage diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. It also helps reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, improves brain health, and boosts overall well-being.
● For kids and teenagers, being active is crucial for strong bones, healthy muscle growth, and development. It also improves their motor skills and thinking abilities.
● 31% of adults and 80% of adolescents do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity.
● If we don't increase physical activity, it could cost healthcare systems around $300 billion globally between 2020 and 2030, or about $27 billion each year. Reducing inactivity is essential for better health and lower healthcare costs.
Benefits of regular physical activity
● If you are regularly physically active, you may:
● reduce your risk of a heart attack
● manage your weight better
● have a lower blood cholesterol level
● lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and some cancers
● have lower blood pressure
● have stronger bones, muscles, and joints and a lower risk of developing osteoporosis
● lower your risk of falls
● recover better from periods of hospitalization or bed rest
● feel better – with more energy, a better mood, feel more relaxed and sleep better.
How much physical activity is recommended?
The WHO Global Guidelines on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour provide clear recommendations for different age groups, including children (age 5 and up), adolescents, adults, older adults, pregnant and post-partum women, and people living with chronic conditions and disabilities. These guidelines specify the frequency, intensity, and duration of physical activity needed to achieve significant health benefits and reduce health risks. They emphasize that any amount of physical activity is better than none, and all activity counts. Additionally, all age groups are encouraged to limit sedentary time and engage in muscle-strengthening activities. For children under 5 years of age, the WHO Guidelines on Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour, and Sleep offer recommendations on how much time they should spend being active or sleeping within 24 hours. They also advise on the maximum amount of time young children should spend on screen-based activities or being restrained. An infographic summarizes the current WHO guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behaviour for all age groups. These guidelines are developed through a thorough process involving the review of scientific evidence and expert consultations. Preparations are already in progress for the next set of guidelines, expected to be published in 2030.
How Member States can increase levels of physical activity
The WHO Global Action Plan on Physical Activity offers guidelines for countries and communities to promote physical activity, ensuring everyone has ample opportunities to stay active. Key recommendations include policies that improve access to walking, cycling, and non-motorized transport, increase physical activity options in schools, workplaces, childcare centres, and healthcare settings, and enhance community sports and public open spaces.
Effective implementation of these policies requires coordinated efforts across multiple government departments such as health, transport, education, employment, sports, and urban planning. It also relies on engagement from NGOs, various sectors, stakeholders, and disciplines to tailor solutions that fit each country's cultural and social context. Priority should be placed on policies that address disparities in physical activity levels, aiming to promote and enable physical activity for everyone.
Conclusion
Regular physical activity offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. It reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, strengthens muscles and bones, and enhances overall well-being. Engaging in exercise also improves mood, reduces stress, and promotes better sleep. To lead a healthier lifestyle, it's essential to prioritize regular physical activity. Whether through simple activities like walking or more vigorous exercises, staying active contributes significantly to long-term health and quality of life. Adopting a routine of physical activity not only boosts physical fitness but also supports mental clarity and emotional resilience.