Why be Active - Physical Activity

Physical Activity
Why be active?

The health benefits of physical activity

Physical activity can reduce the risk of, or improve outcomes for a number of health conditions including coronary heart disease, obesity, strokes, diabetes, cancer, depression, hypertension, osteoporosis, stress and some respiratory conditions.

There is evidence to support the current recommendation of at least 30 minutes a day of moderate intensity activity on most days of the week for reduction in the risk of coronary heart disease and diabetes. However, the frequency, intensity, duration and type of activity required to achieve other health benefits may vary.

To reduce the risk of obesity, the World Health Organization recommends 60 minutes per day of at least moderate intensity activity.

To reduce risk of colorectal cancer the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recommends 45–60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity (IARC 2002)

Muscle strengthening and balance training can reduce falls and increase functional status among older adults. For mental health benefit, the intensity is not as important as finding an activity that you enjoy.

In many cases more research is required to determine the best type and combination of physical activity to achieve different health benefits.

More information on the type of activity for health conditions is available in Healthy Eating – Healthy Action, Oranga Kai – Oranga Pumau, A Background (2003) (page 32, PDF)

1 IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer). 2002. Weight Control and Physical Activity. IARC Handbooks of Cancer Prevention: vol 6. Lyon: IARC Press.).