Whatever your age, there's strong scientific evidence that being physically active can help you lead a healthier and happier life. It's essential to be physically active if you want to live a fulfilling life into old age.
People who do regular physical activity have a lower risk of:
- coronary heart disease and stroke
- type 2 diabetes
- bowel cancer
- breast cancer in women
- depression
- early death
- falls (among older adults)
- dementia, including Alzheimer's disease
Research also shows that physical activity can boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing your risk of stress.
Adults should try to be active every day and aim to do at least 150 minutes of physical activity over a week. For most people, the easiest way to get moving is walking. However, taking part in activities such as sports and exercise will make you even healthier.
For any type of activity to benefit your health, you need to be moving quick enough to raise your heart rate, breathe faster and feel warmer.
