An exercise physiologist, Mr. Ademola Ajayi, on Sunday said regular physical exercise has been proven to increase longevity and improve overall quality of life.
Ajayi told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that there was need for increased awareness on the importance of physical activity.
Millions of people continue to practise sedentary lifestyle inspite of the wide array of physical activity benefits to the human body and health.
The health benefits of physical activity are seen not only in adults but also in children and older people.
Adults of all sizes and shape gain health and fitness benefits through physical activity; so it’s independent of a person’s body weight,’’ he said.
Ajayi said that some benefits of regular physical exercise include prevention of premature death, reduction in risk of obesity as well as improved cardio respiratory health and functional ability.
People who do moderate to intense aerobic physical activity have a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular diseases than inactive people.
Regular active adults have lower rates of heart diseases and stroke and older adults who already have functional limitations also benefit from regular physical activity,’’ he said.
According to him, the benefits of physical exercise also outweigh the risk of injury and sudden heart attack, saying these had prevented some people from engaging in it.
The benefits of exercise goes beyond weight control; everyone needs exercise to be healthy.
Some barriers to physical activity include increase in sedentary entertainment such as the internet and video games and increase in the number of labour-saving devices.
Others are lack of time, over-dependence on automobiles, decrease in physical education and recess time for schools,’’ he said.
The physiologist said that some recommended exercise types include stretching and aerobic exercise like brisk walking, swimming, jogging and running.
These are good for strengthening the cardiovascular system and increasing overall strength and stamina.
Others are anaerobic exercise to improve bone density, improve posture and strengthen muscles,’’ he said.