Physical activity
Health impact of physical activity
Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and several other avoidable chronic diseases, including diabetes, certain forms of cancer, overweight and obesity, osteoporosis, and other illnesses.
Yet the majority of people in the United Kingdom and around the world do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity. According to the World Health Organisation, approximately 2 million deaths around the world are due to physical inactivity.
Adults who are physically active have 20-30% reduced risk of premature death, and up to 50% reduced risk of developing a chronic disease. [1]
The risk of developing coronary heart disease due to being physically inactive is comparable to that of smoking. [1] [2] The prevalence of inactivity amongst adults is almost three times that of smoking [3] - see Current activity levels.
Recommended levels of physical activity
Adults
The Department of Health recommends that adults should take 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity at least five days a week. Increasing the level of activity will also increase the health benefits. Some research has found that lower levels of physical activity - such as 30 minutes of walking, 3 days a week - can also reduce blood pressure and bring health benefits. However 30 minutes of activity, 5 days a week is the accepted standard for providing a health benefit across a wide range of diseases, including Coronary Heart Disease and diabetes, and should be the minimum goal.
For weight loss and/or the prevention of obesity, a key risk factor for coronary heart disease and Type 2 diabetes, it is likely that many people will need to take 45-60 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity every day. A healthy diet is also an important part of preventing obesity.
Children
It is recommended that children and young people should engage in a total of at least 60 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity most days a week. At least twice a week this should include activities to improve bone health, muscle strength and flexibility.
Research has shown that the recommended levels of activity can be taken in one session or in shorter bouts of activity of 10 minutes or more. Appropriate activities include moderate intensity lifestyle activity (brisk walking, cycling, and active hobbies), more structured exercise or sport, or a combination of these.
Play, and particularly unstructured play - such as playing tag or cycling - is an important way for children to engage in physical activity. Play also contributes to children's social, emotional and cognitive development.
> Health impact of physical activity
> Potential and challenge for Public Health
> References
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