Physical Activity to Disease Prevention

Physical Activity to Disease Prevention

Physical Activity to Disease Prevention

Did you know that one in two adults has a chronic disease?

Only half of adults get the physical activity needed to help reduce and prevent it.

One of the most important things you can do for your health is to get regular physical activity to prevent disease.

What is the importance of regular physical activity to prevent disease?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, getting enough physical activity can prevent:

One in 10 premature deaths.

One in eight cases of breast cancer.

One in eight cases of colorectal cancer.

One in 12 cases of diabetes and one in 15 cases of heart disease.

 So, how much physical activity do you need to prevent disease?

For the greatest health benefits, the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week.

It is important that you engage in a physical activity that you enjoy, that makes you feel good and fits your ability.

This can include activities such as: brisk walking, riding a bike, pushing a lawn mower and/or hiking.

In addition, it is recommended that you do a muscle-strengthening activity for at least two days a week.

This could include activities such as:

Weight lifting and resistance exercises (such as push-ups or using resistance bands).

This may sound like a lot, but you can break that time up into smaller parts and combine them throughout the day and week.

******The benefits of physical activity begin immediately.

Immediate benefits that are experienced after just one session can include:

Improve sleep, reduce anxiety and lower blood pressure.

Long-term benefits experienced with regular physical activity can include:

Improve brain health.

Improve heart health.

Reducing the risk of some types of cancer.

Reduce the risk of weight gain.

Improve bone health and improve balance and coordination.

Remember that some activities are better than none, so try to get moving today!