February is not just a month for romance, but it is also Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month. This month serves as a reminder to prioritize physical activity and make healthier choices for a better quality of life.
Statistics from the faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Cape Town reveal that nearly half of South African adults lead sedentary lifestyles, putting them at a higher risk for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 1.8 billion adults do not meet the recommended 150 minutes of exercise per week.
Nicole Jennings, a spokesperson for Pharma Dynamics, emphasizes the importance of regular exercise in preventing lifestyle diseases. Physical inactivity is a leading contributor to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and mental health issues. Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month serves as a reminder to prioritize prevention through regular exercise and adopting better health habits.
WHO recommends that adults aged 18-64 engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. For additional health benefits, the recommendation is to increase the duration to 300 minutes per week. The same guidelines apply to adults aged 65 and above. Children and adolescents aged 5-17 should aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
The recommended types of exercises include aerobic activities like walking, running, swimming, or cycling, as well as strength training and flexibility exercises. Jennings suggests starting at a manageable pace and gradually increasing activity levels. She also shares practical tips to make workouts more enjoyable, such as exercising with friends and family, setting small goals, incorporating movement into daily activities, using fitness apps, and trying new activities to keep things fun.
“Prevention is always better than cure,” says Jennings. By engaging in regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet, many lifestyle diseases can be avoided entirely. This month, take the opportunity to prioritize your physical health and make positive changes for a healthier lifestyle.
Remember, small efforts can make a big difference in your overall well-being. So, lace up your sneakers, grab a friend, and start moving towards a healthier you this Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month.
