Australia is an inactive nation with more than half of our community not meeting the minimum daily physical activity requirements. Heart Week is a great opportunity to take stock of how much physical activity we do a day and to think about ways to build in 30 minutes a day – with the aim of reaching 60 minutes of physical activity in time.At least 30 minutes of physical activity a day can reduce your risk of heart disease by 35 per cent. Physical activity also helps with:
- Managing high blood pressure, high cholesterol and weight issues such as being overweight or obesity.
- Reducing the risk of clinical depression and anxiety and helps with managing symptoms.
- Reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes by 30 per cent.
- Reducing the risk of bowel cancer, breast cancer and cancers of the bladder, endometrium, oesophagus, kidney, lung and stomach.
- Lowering the risk of dementia later in life.
Regular physical activity is important at all ages and stages through life. You are never too young or old to benefit from being physically active. Great habits are started young. To find out more visit www.heartfoundation.org.au this Heart Week and make sure you join in the conversation using #heartweek2018 #dontgetthesits and #heartfoundation.