Did you know physical inactivity is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases?
According to major research, physical inactivity increases the risk of chronic non-communicable diseases which is the number one cause of death and disability in the world.
Non-communicable diseases include illnesses such as:
Parkinson’s disease, coronary heart disease (CHD), diabetes, cancers, autoimmune diseases, strokes, chronic kidney disease, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, mental health conditions including Alzheimer’s disease, most heart diseases, and chronic respiratory diseases, to mention a few.
Non-communicable diseases shorten life expectancy and there cannot be enough efforts to eliminate this cankerworm but we can start by eliminating physical inactivity.
Here are some tips to help you overcome physical inactivity and stay physically active.
- Add physical activity to your daily routine. For example, walk or ride your bike, take the stairs, exercise while you watch TV, or park a considerable distance from your destination.
- Develop a set of activities that can be done irrespective of weather conditions, such as (stair climbing, rope skipping, dancing, indoor swimming, etc.).
- Take advantage of physical activity facilities and programs at work.
- Plan social activities involving exercise, develop active hobbies, and try a fitness tracker.
- Select activities that don’t require new skills, such as walking, climbing stairs, or jogging.
The World Health Organization recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercises a week to stay physically active, in addition, it is advised to move at least 1 to 2 minutes each hour of sitting.
By exercising more and staying physically active, the risk of non-communicable diseases can be averted.
Stay physically active today.