The World Confederation for Physical Therapy has prepared an information resource to help physical therapists inform others about their role and the health benefits they bring wherever in the world they work. Topics include:
- Physical activity facts
- Benefits of physical activity
- How much physical activity is enough?
- Sources on the WCPT website
- Physical therapy and physical activity
- Sleep
- Physical activity and ageing
- Physical activity and mental health
- Campaigns
- International professional organisations
Here is a snippet of trivia from the WCPT’s resource page:
How much physical activity is enough?
The World Health Organization recommends 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity every day for children aged 5-18. Moderate activity includes brisk walking and cycling. Vigorous activity is exercise that makes people huff and puff – and could include dancing and household chores, as well as sports like running and football.
Source: World Health Organization
Visit the WHO website for more information on physical activity and young people.
Adults (18-65 years old) should undertake:
30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity five days per week;
or
20 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity three days per week;
or
an equivalent combination of moderate/vigorous-intensity physical activity;
and
8-10 muscular strengthening exercises (8-12 repetitions) at least two days per week.
Older adults (65+) should undertake:
The same recommendations as described for adults (outlined above) but considering the intensity and type of physical activity appropriate for older people;
and
exercises to maintain flexibility;
and
balance exercises.
Source: World Health Organization
Having read the information from the WCPT resource page certainly made me re-assess the amount of physical activity I engage in each day. As they say, “if there is a will, there is a way,” so even if you are in your favorite Joe’s jeans or not, it doesn’t really matter, does it?
