Summary FAQ 

What types of activities and activity levels are appropriate for general health and wellbeing?

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This answer is brought to you by many of the Australian nutrition professionals who regularly contribute to a nutrition email discussion group.

As a result of the application of technology, few Australians are now required to be physically active. People such as infantry soldiers, professional sportspeople and builders labourers are among the few who must be active in their occupations.

Largely because so many people are now sedentary, the average body fat levels of Australians are increasing alarmingly quickly. The percentage of people who are overweight is found to be higher each time a new survey is conducted.

Many people avoid being physically active because they believe that they must be VERY active to gain any health benefits. This is no longer believed to be correct. The Active Australia Campaign recommends that for general health, 'You only have to exercise regularly, not seriously'. A total of about 30 minutes daily of moderately-vigorous activity (eg, walking briskly, swimming laps at a moderate pace, riding a bike, doubles tennis, ballroom dancing, chopping firewood, gardening activities such as digging and wheelbarrowing) is recommended. It is also recommended that you fit in some vigorous activity too (eg, jogging, fast swimming, singles tennis, squash, hockey) several times a week, as convenient. 

On some days, resistance training (such as light weight training, pushups, situps) should be undertaken to ensure that strength and muscular endurance are maintained. Finally, long, slow stretching following activity will help to maintain flexibility.

The important thing is to incorporate activity into your life so it becomes a normal part of your daily routine, rather than something you have to consciously think about doing. 

For more information Nutrition Australia recommends:

• Eating Activity Sport and You
• Weight for a Change

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[Date issued: January 2001]

Disclaimer: This material is provided on the basis that it constitutes advice of a general nature only. It is not intended to replace the advice of a physician or a dietitian.