Physical Activity

Any movement of the body that raises heart rate and breathing can be considered physical activity. Physical activity can be organized, spontaneous, short or long. It can also be solo or with other people. Sports, whether competitive or for fun, are all a form of physical activity. Physical activity is an important part of staying healthy. Many health problems can be prevented or improved with regular physical activity.

However, getting enough physical activity is a challenge for most people. Vehicles and other technologies mean that much of the developed world no longer has to walk far distances for the essentials of life. As well, cellphones, computers and television are popular sources of recreation that require little to no movement. Most people are not employed in physically demanding jobs, but work in offices sitting at desks. These factors all contribute to incredibly low levels of physical activity worldwide which results in a rise in overweight and obesity, leading to increases in chronic disease and cancer.