ENHANCE YOUR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: PHYSIOLOGICAL WAY TO REMAIN HEALTHY

Abstract

Human lives are becoming increasingly sedentary because of the use of motorized transport, mechanized lifestyle and the increased use of screens for work, education and recreation. There has been no improvement in global levels of physical activity since 2001. Insufficient activity increased by 5% (from 31.6% to 36.8%) in high-income countries between 2001 and 2016. The economic burden of physical inactivity is large. From an economic perspective, physical inactivity costs are as high as $53.8 billion worldwide, of which Pakistan alone bears the amount of $198.5 million. WHO defines physical activity as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure. The World Health Organization recommends, for adults aged 18-64 years, to undertake i. at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity throughout the week, or ii. at least 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity throughout the week, or iii. perform an equivalent combination of both forms of physical activity. Regular physical activity is one of the most important things people can do to improve their health. Moving more and sitting less have tremendous benefits for everyone, regardless of age, sex, race, ethnicity, or current fitness level.

Keywords: Exercise, physical activity, physical inactivity chronic diseases, economic burden