Follow the link below to help answer the following questions:

https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/216370/dh_128210.pdf

What is physical activity?

Physical activity includes all forms of activity that results in the expenditure of calories or raises the heart rate: e.g. walking, active play, dancing, gardening, housework

What do the guidelines say about the type and amount of physical activity people should take to benefit their health and prevent disease?

Early years, <5 years

• floor based/ water based play
• when mobile without assistance, 180 minutes throughout a day
• minimise the amount of sedentary time 

Children and young people, 5–18 years

• moderate to vigorous intensity physical exercise for at least 60 minutes and up to several hours per day
• vigorous intensity activities should be incorporated at least 3 days per week
• minimise the amount of sedentary time

Adults, 19–64 years

• aim to be active daily
• 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity in bouts of 10 minutes or more (e.g. 30 minutes on at least 5 days per week) OR 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity spread across the week
• should undertake physical activity to improve muscle strength on at least 2 days per week
• minimise the amount of sedentary time

Older adults >65 years

• some physical activity is better than no physical activity
• 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity in bouts of 10 minutes or more (e.g. 30 minutes on at least 5 days per week) OR 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity spread across the week for those who are regularly active OR a combination of moderate and vigorous activity
• should undertake physical activity to improve muscle strength on at least 2 days per week
• those at risk of falls should incorporate activity to improve balance and coordination on at least 2 days per week
• minimise the amount of sedentary time

What does the report say about the relationship between physical activity and mental health?

• clear evidence that physical activity reduces the risk of depression and cognitive decline in adults and older adults
• some evidence that physical activity improves sleep
• limited evidence that PA reduces stress and anxiety

What groups within our society are less likely to engage in physical activity? How might you encourage these groups to participate?

• low income households
• certain ethnic groups
• girls more likely than boys to reduce PA levels as they move from childhood to adolescence

How might you encourage these groups to participate?

Action is needed on multiple levels to provide opportunities for a wide range of partners

• community-based activities/no cost to the individual