Physical activity is an important way to prevent disease and stay healthy.
Physical activity reduces the risk of:
- Heart disease
- Some types of cancer
- Osteoporosis
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Depression
- Stress
- Anxiety
Gilmour, H. 2007. Physically active Canadians. Statistics Canada Health Reports, 18(3), Catalogue 82-003.
What does Physical Activity mean?
Physical activity is any muscle movement that uses energy. There are 2 main ways to be physically active -active living and exercise:
- Active Living is a way of life where being active is natural, and happens every day.
- Exercise is planned and routine, such as attending an aerobic class.
There are 3 types of activities:
- Endurance -continuous activities for your heart, lungs and circulatory system, such as walking and recreational sports.
- Strength - activities against resistance to strengthen muscles and bones, improve posture and help prevent diseases, such as weight lifting.
- Flexibility - gentle reaching, bending and stretching activities to keep your muscles relaxed and your joints mobile, such as yoga.