Presented by

Dr. Mohamud A. Verjee

Overview

Moderate intensity aerobic activity, including brisk walking, is regarded as safe for most, both young and old. Good habits for healthy living start in schooldays but tend to wane in periodicity once higher education commences. There is no need to place oneself at risk, but a progressive increase of activity is advisable for all.

The prevalence of Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) is rising globally, and threatens to overtake acute illnesses overall by the year 2050. Diabetes figures are of particular concern, with possibly over 500 million people being affected by the year 2030. What is more apparent today is to avoid being inactive. Pro-active fitness philosophies are proven to benefit health, control weight, and reduce one’s risk of NCDs such as cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. A reduction of breast and colon cancers is also likely. Bone and soft tissue health is improved, as is mental health. Regular physical activity is also shown to better self-esteem and help with stress management leading to physiological effects resulting in the improvement of mood and a reduction of depression and anxiety.

Thirty minutes a day of physical activity, at least five times a week is the recommended minimum to stay in relatively good health. However, this low figure can be raised to over one hundred and fifty minutes per week for some individuals to obtain the maximum benefit. Different people have different metabolic rates without keeping the thirty-minute a day rule. Even cumulative aerobic bursts of activity totaling thirty minutes per day are helpful for fitness.

Healthy lifestyles including being a non-smoker, controlling dietary intake, reducing stress and regular physical activity contribute to an individual’s well-being. The dividend of having a longer and healthier life is the ultimate reward.

Target Audience

Doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, allied healthcare professionals, students, educators, counselors and administrators.

Please note, all attending are requested to wear casual loose clothing and sports shoes. Participation in physical activity is completely voluntary.

Objectives

1. Outline the benefits of physical activity to improve health. 
2. Discuss the appropriate components of a physical activity program.

Workshop Outline

References

https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm CDChttps://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389 Mayo Clinic

https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/phys/benefits NIHhttp://exerciseright.com.au/exercise-on-a-budget/ Exercise Right for Students