Regular, daily physical activity significantly reduces the risk of developing leading chronic non-communicable diseases, the Institute of Public Health (IJZ) announced, urging citizens to move for at least 30 minutes every day to improve physical and mental health.
The health institution stated that a physically active person achieves numerous benefits for their physical and mental health, has better fitness, increased energy, improved mood and quality of life.
As stated, World Physical Activity Day is celebrated on April 6, and this year's theme "Be Active, from 1 to 101!" emphasizes the importance of physical activity as one of the key elements of healthy lifestyles, relevant for all ages, from infancy to old age.
"Regular, daily physical activity, such as walking, running, cycling, sports activities, active recreation and play, significantly reduces the risk of developing leading chronic non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, certain types of malignant neoplasms, heart disease, and stroke," the statement says.
The Institute of Public Health said that available data at the global level show that physical inactivity has been increasing in recent years, in all age categories, and a sedentary lifestyle is taking precedence in the lives of individuals, as well as families and society as a whole.
It is stated that in the world, one in three adults (31 percent), or 1,8 billion people, is not physically active enough, with women being less physically active than men.
"This means that they do not meet the global recommendations of at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week," the IJZ said in a statement.
According to them, this represents an increase of five percent between 2010 and 2022.
"If this trend continues, it is estimated that the proportion of adults who do not meet recommended levels of physical activity will increase to 35 percent by 2030," the Institute of Public Health indicated.
They stated that it is concerning that as many as 81 percent of adolescents (aged 11-17) are not physically active enough, with adolescent girls being less active.
It is added that after the age of 60, levels of physical inactivity increase equally in both men and women.
"Irregular physical activity increases the risk of premature death by 20-30 percent compared to active people," the IJZ said in a statement.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations for physical activity, as stated by the Institute of Public Health, are at least 60 minutes of moderate aerobic physical activity per day for children and adolescents, and at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week (walking, running, cycling, dancing, basketball, volleyball, etc.) for adults.
The WHO recommends that older adults start with lower levels of physical activity and gradually increase their levels of physical activity.
The WHO also recommends limiting a sedentary lifestyle, due to increasing motorized transportation and increased use of screens at work.
"Every physical activity must be aligned with the health condition of each individual in order to be safe and give the best results," the Public Health Institute emphasized.
They stated that light or moderate intensity physical activity that does not exceed the demands of brisk walking and activities of daily living does not require specific medical approval.
The Institute of Public Health pointed out that regular physical activity is closely related to recommendations for a healthy lifestyle.
"Eat a varied, colorful diet with five or more servings of vegetables and fruit a day, rich in nuts, dairy products and sufficient water. Do not use tobacco products and alcohol," the IJZ said in a statement.
They stated that the benefits of physical activity include achieving optimal body weight, helping to strengthen immunity, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, and improving cognitive function.
"In addition, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle and bone strength are improved, and coordination of movement and movement is developed," the statement says.
The Institute of Public Health said that regular physical activity has positive effects not only on the health and well-being of individuals, but also on society, the environment, and the economy.
"For example, walking and cycling can reduce air pollution and noise levels in urban cities and contribute to a healthy environment, while participation in sporting activities and events enables communities to connect and come closer together and build valuable life skills for individuals," the IJZ said.
They called on all citizens to exercise at least 30 minutes every day at a moderate intensity to improve physical and mental health.
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