Health
Sport and physical activity can help prevent ill health and assist those recovering from illness or injury. However many people are not participating regularly enough realise such benefits.
In contributing to the health agenda a wide range of perceived barriers to participation in sport and physical activity need to be overcome, including lack of access to appropriate facilities, activities, coaching and instruction, affordability, limited time and attitude to sport and physical activity. For people with medical conditions there may also be further barriers including fear of injury or of making their current medical condition worse, embarrassment and fear of failure and concern over the impact on their current lifestyle and relationships.
A wide range of interventions are being utilised to increase participation and bring about the associated health benefits including
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providing activities to meet the needs of specific user groups
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providing low cost activities or equipment
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improving the range of facilities and activities, including use of non traditional locations
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mentoring and motivation schemes
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education and awareness raising campaigns
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developing a joint sport and health strategy
To achieve health benefits through physical activity the Department of Health recommends:
For adults: at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on five or more days of the week (similar to brisk walking). Activity can be taken in stages of 10 to 15 minutes, allowing for accumulation of activity throughout the day.
For young people: at least one hour's physical activity of moderate intensity each day. This hour can be made up from a variety of activities including organised sport, play, walking to school, physical education or planned exercise. At least twice a week, young people should participate in physical activity of at least moderate intensity to enhance and maintain muscular strength and flexibility and bone health.
It is important to note that these recommendations are for the whole population. People with specific health needs should request advice from qualified health or fitness professionals.
There are opportunities for physical activity in four major areas of day to day life:
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As a method of transport, for example walking or cycling to school, work or leisure activities.
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At work, for example if a job involves manual labour.
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In household activities, such as gardening, housework or D.I.Y.
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In leisure time, in sports, exercise and recreational activities.
Most people's activity will involve a combination of these areas, but sport, exercise and recreational activities can make
a significant contribution.
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