Govenment Report Again Links Physical Activity with Good Health

June 29, 2002

Take a hike and prolong your life! This report, released June 20, 2002 from the Department of Health and Human Services is titled, "Physical Activity Fundamental To Preventing Disease."

Actually, "hike" is perhaps too strong a word... you only need to take a walk to reap health benefits. The report states:

Participation in regular physical activity— at least 30 minutes of moderate activity on at least five days per week, or 20 minutes of vigorous physical activity at least three times per week—is critical to sustaining good health. Youth should strive for at least one hour of exercise a day. Regular physical activity has beneficial effects on most (if not all) organ systems, and consequently it helps to prevent a broad range of health problems and diseases. People of all ages, both male and female, derive substantial health benefits from physical activity.

The report cites a number of interesting statistics. The percentages of persons suffering from "killer" diseases or conditions who can benefit from regular exercise are listed. Charts are presented for the number of adults and young people who do not get enough exercise. Costs associated with the medical care of diseases exacerbated by sedentary lifestyles are also graphed. "The increasing prevalence of chronic medical conditions and diseases related to physical inactivity are associated with two types of costs." Direct health care costs are obvious, but there are other costs associated with the value of lost wages and the value of future earnings lost by premature death.

Other benefits of the hike you will take after you read this article are improved mental health, possibly including prevention of depression. You will help maintain your energy balance and a healthy weight.

The article contains a Body Mass Index Chart to help you quickly place yourself on a spectrum from having a healthy weight to obese.

"Because physical inactivity is a risk factor for many diseases and conditions, making physical activity an integral part of daily life is crucial. Both the public and private sectors will need to band together to promote more healthy habits for those of all ages." The report concludes that programs which get people to take advantage of existing opportunities, such as hiking trails, must be encouraged, strengthened and expanded. Sounds like we're right on target.

Now go take a hike!