We all know exercise is good for you. Do we actually know how much exercise we are meant to be doing? With an ever growing society of convenience and sedentary lifestyles, getting in enough physical activity is a struggle for most people. I see it all too often here in the clinic where patients don’t have the basic knowledge of physical activity. They also don’t know how to change their current activity levels. This blog aims to shine a light on the guidelines in which we should aim to adhere to with regards physical activity in the aim to prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs). NCDs refers to chronic diseases that are not caused by infectious agents. These are long term diseases that progress slowly. Diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and respiratory disease to name but a few.
World Health Organisation (WHO) have developed guidelines “Global Recommendation of Physical Activity for Health” to provide national guidance on the frequency, duration, type and total amount of physical activity needed to prevent NCDs. The guidelines are divided into three age groups: 5-17 years, 18-64 years and 65 and over.
For this blog I will focus on the latter two age groups, however, if you wish to review the guidelines for 5-17 year olds please click on this link.
All the points from above are recommended for adults 65 and over in additional to the following:
If you want to become more physically active and need some guidance, our physiotherapists are highly trained in getting individuals more active. Moreover, if you have a joint or muscle problem that is hampering you from becoming more physically active, contact us today and we will endeavour to help you achieve your goals. Here at Ballsbridge Physiotherapy Clinic we also have a variety of Pilates and exercise classes that may help you achieve your 150 minutes of exercise per week.