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Physical activity benefits for all ages

GEHA | October 28, 2018

Everyday health
No matter your age, physical activity can help improve your health.
Regular physical activity is good for everyone; people of all ages and body types can be physically active.

However, research revealed that people are generally unaware of the connection between lack of physical activity and increased risk for some diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers.

Here are a few benefits of physical activity:
  • Children and adolescents – improve muscular fitness, bone health and heart health
  • Adults – lower the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some types of cancer
  • Older adults – lower the risk of falls, improve mental skills such as learning, memory and judgment

If you don’t have the time, don’t enjoy structured exercise such as jogging or going to a gym, there are other ways to increase your physical activity as you go about your daily routine, for example:

  • When shopping, park in a spot farther from the door.
  • Go for a walk with your family or on your lunch hour.
  • Do chair exercises while watching TV.

Everyone can benefit from physical activity, no matter their age. Check with your doctor before you begin an exercise program.


Sources:
 Healio.com, “Public lacks awareness of link between physical activity, cancer risk.” Healio.com, 9 August 2018
Healthfinder.gov, “National physical fitness and sports month." U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion