| The majority of Canadians are
aware that physical activity reduces the risk of heart disease,
prolongs life and helps to maintain a healthy weight. They are
apparently less aware of other well-documented benefits such
as
- better self-esteem;
- prevention of other diseases such as adult-onset diabetes
and osteoporosis;
- reduced stress;
- increased energy;
- maintenance of functional ability with age;
- increased relaxation.
In addition, the 1997 Physical Activity Monitor conducted
by the Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute shows
that active and sedentary Canadians don't view physical activity
in the same way. Sedentary Canadians are clearly less aware
of the short-term advantages of physical activity,
perhaps because they have not experienced them first hand.
Research shows that tangible outcomes like feeling energized,
more relaxed and better able to cope with stress may be evident
in as little as four months. So, while some benefits of physical
activity are a long-term investment in health, many valuable
benefits can be reaped relatively quickly, in both men and women.
It is never too late to experience benefits from physical activity.
Now is the time to be active to minimize the risks or effects
of heart disease, feel energized, be better able to relax and,
for older adults, maintain the strength, endurance and flexibility
to do everyday tasks independently.
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