Physical activity and fitness

Physical activity is a key factor in maintaining good overall health and fitness. Being physically active has significant health benefits, including reducing the risk of some chronic conditions, helping to control weight and improving mental wellbeing. There has been a decline in physical activity over recent decades due to the sedentary nature of many forms of work, changes in transportation and increased 'screen time'. A lack of regular physical activity is associated with an increased risk of mortality and morbidity from heart and vascular diseases, particularly coronary heart disease. Physical inactivity has been ranked second only to tobacco smoking, in terms of the burden of disease and injury from risk factors in Australia; globally, physical inactivity is the fourth leading risk factor for mortality, contributing to 6% of deaths. The health, social and economic costs of physical inactivity are confronting. This book reveals the extent of participation in physical activity by Australians, and explores ways of overcoming sedentary behaviour and inactivity through appropriate forms of exercise to suit your age and situation. Are you being active enough? Read more…