Adults who are physically active have a 20-30% reduced risk of premature death, and up to 50% reduced risk of major diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some cancers*.
Physical activity as a part of our wellbeing however works on a number of different levels.
As children, our social and physical development is greatly affected by our hobbies. This can give immediate benefits such as better cognitive functioning and greater self esteem but can also have long lasting affects such as greater bone density.
As an active adult your hobbies can not only affect your own wellbeing but also that of those around you. Social interaction, motivational factors and peer group influences through active hobbies can all mean greater health and wellbeing for you, your family and your friends.
What you do and how it affects you is very individual. Your focus may be moderate, daily walking that increases calorie expenditure and improves heart health, it may be yoga, golf or swimming to relax the mind and de-stress.
For true wellbeing your activity should fit into your lifestyle, it should be something that continues to evolve yet is always attainable and consistent. It should be balanced - designed to enhance multiple factors and influence your life in a positive way.
Guidelines on the type, intensity and frequency of activity exist to ensure that you get this balance right. You may be aware of the recommendation of 30 minutes of moderate activity x five days a week guide – but did you also know that this can be broken up e.g. 10 minutes x three per day? ** The Year of Wellbeing will help you to understand these guidelines and ensure you make the right choices.
As you grow older mobility, strength and balance are three key activity areas that will greatly affect your quality of life. Knowing how to work on these now, whether you are 25 or 95 can ensure continued wellbeing for the rest of your life.
References:
*At least 5 a week. Evidence on the impact of activity and its effect on public health. CMO, Department of Health 2004
**America College of Sports Medicine, Current Activity Guidelines, 2002.