World Health Day 2002
April 7th 2002

What is Physical Activity?

Physical activity improves health and the quality of life. When performed on a regular basis and coupled with good eating habits, physical activity can help to prevent or delay the onset of cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, osteoporosis and colon cancer, and the health complications associated with overweight and obesity. The benefits, however, go well beyond those of disease prevention. An active lifestyle also improves mental health to enhance mood, boost mental alertness, alleviate depression and facilitate stress management. In the long term, physical activity can also improve self-esteem and provide social benefits through enhanced social interaction and integration.

Physical activity need not be strenuous to be beneficial. For an average sedentary adult, engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity of moderate intensity everyday or on most days of the week is sufficient to obtain health benefits. Moveover, those 30 minutes can be accumulated throughout the day in small bouts of activity or exercise. It is not necessary to practice vigorous sports, join costly fitness clubs or purchase special equipment to achieve a positive impact on health.

The World Health Organization defines physical activity as "all movements in everyday life, including work, recreation, exercise and sporting activities." In fact, physical activity is a broad term that encompasses activities that range in intensity from taking the stairs regularly, dancing and walking briskly to jogging, biking and practicing sports. Moderate physical activity can be carried out by anyone, at no cost, and it can be easily accommodated into a daily life schedule. Physical activity can be incorporated in many different ways throughout the day.

Physical activity is everywhere.
Look for everyday opportunities!

Ways to incorporate physical activity into YOUR everyday life:

• Take public transportation or ride a bicycle, and incorporate walking in your daily commute
• Take the stairs, rather than waiting for the elevator
• Take a brisk walk during lunch or a break during the day
• Try to increase the intensity of your daily household chores
• Go on nature walks with your family, children and friends
• Join a community sports group
• Go dancing

And much much more! Be creative, and have fun!