Stay active
Being inactive can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes, overweight and obesity, high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol.
Over half (56%) of Australian adults do not do the recommended amount of physical activity (2.5 hours per week) – that's more than 9.5 million people. And 15% of adults do no exercise at all (abs.gov.au).
Control your risk
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most (preferably all) days of the week. You don’t have to do it all in one go. It is just as effective to exercise a few times a day in 10, 15 or 20-minute sessions.
This can be any form of exercise or physical activity. But the activity should increase your heart rate, make you feel warm and get you a little out of breath.
People with high blood pressure should be careful with some types of exercises. If you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about an exercise program.
If you've had a stroke, you can still exercise even if you have weakness or difficulties with mobility. Physical activity leads to improvements in fitness, walking speed and endurance. Talk to your doctor or physiotherapist about the best types of exercise for you.
Tips
Make one activity part of every week:
- Walk – Substitute a car journey for a walk or go for a bushwalk. Pick up your pace to a faster rate than usual.
- Sign up for a weekly class – Dancing, aerobics, crossfit.
- Get moving outdoors – Whether it's a bike ride, a swim or working up a sweat in the garden, enjoy the great outdoors.
More information
Find out more about Exercise on EnableMe.