Being Full of Vitality

Just imagine how you will feel physically and mentally by taking extra steps towards being fitter! Imagine meeting new people, discovering new interests and generally feeling better.

Physical inactivity can cause coronary heart disease - in other words, if you don't exercise you dramatically increase your risk of dying from a heart attack.

• The more active you are means a healthier heart because it reduces several cardiovascular risks, including high blood pressure
• Being physically active can bolster good mental health and help you to manage stress, anxiety and even depression
• Regular exercise can help you achieve and maintain an ideal weight, which can be important in managing many health conditions, or may just make you feel happier about your appearance
• All exercise helps strengthen bones and muscles to some degree, but weight-bearing exercise, such as running, is especially good in promoting stronger bones and protecting against osteoporosis (a disease which leads to the weakening of/brittle bones), which affects men as well as women
• Different exercises help with all sorts of health niggles, such as digestion, poor posture and sleeplessness, and physical activity can be beneficial for a range of medical conditions, from diabetes to lower back pain

How much physical activity is good?

We live and work in environments which make it difficult to be active to a level that benefits our health. We also have hectic working and family lives that make it easier for us to make excuses! However with a little commitment you can make small and lasting changes to your daily routine and you will start to see and feel the benefits the longer you make those changes.

Britain's leading expert on health, the Chief Medical Officer advises the following:

• Adults - 30 minutes per day five days per week of moderate physical activity levels will provide health benefits. However it is also said that for many people 45-60 minutes per day will be necessary to prevent obesity.
• Children – Children and young people should achieve a total of at least 60 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity each day. At least twice a week this should include activities to improve bone health (activities that producer higher physical stresses on the bones), muscle strength and flexibility.