health benefits of physical activity

Physical activity is defined as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscle that requires energy expenditure. It is recommended that individuals engage in adequate levels of physical activity throughout their lives to benefit their health. Physical activity is a key determinant of energy expenditure, and thus is fundamental to energy balance. Different types and amounts of physical activity are required for different health outcomes:

At least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity 5 days per week reduces the risk of several common noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in adults:

  • cardiovascular disease
  • stroke
  • type II diabetes
  • colon cancer
  • breast cancer.

More physical activity provides greater health benefits and may be required for weight control (more information about Recommended Amount of Physical Activity).

School-aged youth should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity each day (more information about Physical Activity and Young People).


There is also evidence to suggest that increasing levels of various types of physical activity may benefit health through positive effects on:

hypertension;

osteoporosis and falls risk;

body weight and composition;

musculoskeletal conditions such as osteoarthritis and low back pain;

mental and psychological health by reducing depression, anxiety and stress;

control over risky behaviours particularly among children and young people (e.g. tobacco use, alcohol / substance use, unhealthy diet and violence).


social benefits of physical activity

Regular physical activity may also benefit communities and economies through:

increased productivity in the workplace

lower worker absenteeism and turnover

better performing schools.

In many countries a significant proportion of the health spending is due to the costs of managing common NCDs that are associated with inadequate physical activity. Promoting physical activity can be a highly cost-effective and sustainable public health intervention