Benefits of physical activity

By becoming more physically active the good news is the benefits are felt almost immediately especially if you have not been very active up until now. The benefits of being more active include reducing the risk of disease; in particular there is more and more evidence that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of Coronary Heart Disease, Stroke and some Cancers. In addition physical activity can have other positive effects on health:

• Reduces the risk of high blood pressure
• Reduces the risk of diabetes
• Positively effects cholesterol levels

Physical activity does not just reduce the risk of disease, it also

• Helps control weight and weight loss
• Increases your fitness
• Helps to build and maintain healthy bones and muscles
• Helps with digestion
• Helps maintain independence in later life

As well as having psychological benefits such as: 

• Increasing your self esteem and self confidence
• Decreasing the risk of depression
• Reducing stress
• Improves sleep patterns
• Promotes the “feel good factor”

Participating in physical activity also has benefits on the environment. For example active commuting and sensible car usage can: 

• Reduce road traffic volumes
• Reduce the risk of accidents
• Reduce noise and air pollution
• Reduce O Zone depletion
• Preserve green space

Given all these benefits- what are you waiting for!