Posted: May 20, 2014
How good is physical activity for you? Did you know that by increasing your physical activity you can greatly reduce your chances of getting sick? You will also be happier and healthier! Some benefits of being physically active includes better health, improved fitness, better posture and balance, better self-esteem, stronger muscles and bones, feeling less stressed and more relaxed, increased concentration/ better academic score, etc. In other words, it helps you feel good! Physical activity also helps decrease the risk of having heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis, stroke, depression, colon cancer, etc. Adults should accumulate at least 150 minutes per week of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity, plus some exercises that will strengthen muscle and bone at least twice a week. School-aged children and youth should accumulate at least 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity. This should include vigorous-intensity activities at least 3 days per week and activities that strengthen muscle and bone at least 3 days per week, It is also recommended that children and youth limit their inactive time by limiting their screen time (other than school-related) to 2 hours daily (this includes all electronic devices), limit long period of time sitting and maximize time spent outdoor throughout the day. View guidelines online (for all ages) .