Are you physically active?

The World Health Organization has officially named inactivity as a global health problem. WHO reported 1 in 5 adults and 4 out of 5 teenagers do not get enough physical activity. WHO also reported 4-5 million deaths per year could be avoided globally if everyone were more physically active.
Physical activity can help prevent and/or manage many diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cancers, and cardiovascular disease. It can help prevent cognitive decline and improve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Recommendations include getting at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise and 2 days of strength training per week for anyone over the age of 18(60 minutes per day is recommended for children 5-17). 150 minutes equals about 22 minutes a day. Everyone can make time for 22 minutes! And although it is best if all 22 minutes are done at once, it is OK to break it up throughout the day if you need to. Adults over the age of 65 should also incorporate activities that challenge their balance and coordination to prevent falls. A physical therapist can help if you are not sure how to safely start an exercise program. If you have a chronic medical condition or disability, get clearance from your physician.
Every Move Counts! You don’t have to force yourself to run. Find an activity you enjoy: walking, biking, gardening, pickleball, swimming, bowling, golf, dancing, etc. Even housework counts.

“Being physically active is critical for health and well-being – it can help to add years to life and life to years,” said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “Every move counts, especially now as we manage the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic. We must all move every day – safely and creatively.”(1)

So what activity/activities will you do/are you doing to meet the guidelines?

1. https://www.who.int/news/item/25-11-2020-every-move-counts-towards-better-health-says-who
2. WHO Guidelines on Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior