Life's priorities
All of us have priorities that form the 'have-to-do' list in our lives. These priorities might include caring for someone, attending school or college, finding a job or going to work. Sometimes these become more than just priorities and take up all our time, leaving little space for leisure and recreation.
However, there's a well established and growing scientific theory that shows physical activity is an essential part of a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Consider that:
Physical inactivity is an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease. In other words, if you don't exercise, you dramatically increase your risk of dying from a heart attack.
Being physically active has been shown to be positively associated with good mental health. It can help in the management of conditions such as depression and anxiety.
Exercise has also been shown to have a positive effect on a range of medical conditions including hypertension, diabetes and lower back pain.
To achieve these health benefits, it's recommended that people take 30 minutes' moderate physical activity (for example, brisk walking), five days a week. That's 1.5 per cent of the total time in a seven-day week - and for a priority such as improving your health, that represents an excellent investment of time and effort.