Lifestyle

 Regular physical activity is a necessity for health and wellbeing, with many benefits being associated with an active lifestyle:

• It is well established that participation in physical activity can help us achieve and maintain a healthy body weight, provided a balanced diet is also adhered to. If we consume more energy than we expend, over time this can result in weight gain and subsequently overweight and obesity. 
• Many studies have shown that physical activity can help to reduce the risk of a range of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. 
• ‘Weight bearing’ activities – pursuits during which your bones support your weight, such as skipping, dancing, jogging and most of the common sports (with the exception of swimming and cycling) are beneficial for bone health.  These activities are especially important during the growing years, as this is a critical stage in terms of bone development.
• Physical activity may also exert positive effects on anxiety and mood.