Physical Activity Guidelines

Adults should do some type of physical activity every day.

Recommendations:

Strengthening activities that work all the major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms) on at least 2 days a week.

At least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity a week

Spread exercise evenly over 4 to 5 days a week, or every day

Reduce time spent sitting or lying down and break up long periods of not moving with some activity

Benefits of moving your body:

There are many physical and mental benefits of moving more, for example, it can reduce the risk of: Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, falls, depression, joint and back pain, cancers. Improves quality of life, helps with sleep, helps maintain weight and manage stress.

It's important to acknowledge these recommendations and then consider how you might be able to incorporate physical activity into your life. Start small and gradually build up habits and routines that promote activity throughout your day. For example you might try and go for regular walks or park further away from your destination to increase your step count, follow a home or gym based strength exercise routine or start a new hobby / activity that gets you moving more, whatever you decide works for you, the important thing is setting yourself realistic goals and finding something you enjoy!