Over the last 100 years social, environmental, and technological changes have dramatically reduced the amount of activity we engage in as part of our everyday life.
An increase in sedentary behaviour at work and at home, passive modes of transport, and less participation in leisure time activity have all contributed to our current lifestyle that can be inactive to the point of damaging our health.
Diseases associated with physical inactivity eg. Cardiovascular disease, type II Diabetes, obesity; are now considered the greatest public health problem in most countries around the world. The New Zealand Ministry of Health estimating that a 10% increase in activity could result in 600 fewer deaths / year and save $55 million through reduced health expenditure, years of life and decreased incapacity.
So being active is one of the best things we can do to improve or maintain our physical, mental and social well being.
“If all the benefits of physical activity could be put into a pill, EVERYONE would take it!”
The Canterbury West Coast Sports Trust offers a number of programmes and initiatives around Physical Activity including Green Prescription and HEAL Workplaces, as well as offering general advice and support for those who want to know more.
For more information, contact Linda Wensley on 03 373 5036 or email Linda