Physical Activity Promotes Health!
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines physical activity as "all movements in everyday life, including work, recreation, exercise and sporting activities." Compelling evidence shows that people who lead a physically active life are healthier, live longer, and have a better quality of life than those who are not active.
Physical activity helps to prevent or delay the onset of many health problems, including type 2 diabetes and obesity (one of the major risk factors for type 2 diabetes). Being active also promotes emotional well-being.
The Best Physical Activity is the Kind You Enjoy!
For an average sedentary adult, engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most days of the week is enough to obtain health benefits. This activity can be spread out over the day, for example, in shorter periods of 10 to 15 minutes each.
Physical activity does not need to be strenuous to be beneficial, although increasing the time, intensity, and/or frequency of physical activity will result in even greater health benefits. Here are some examples of physical activities you might enjoy:
| Moderate | Vigorous |
Walking briskly
Walking downstairs
Biking
Dancing
Swimming
Gardening
Housework (washing floors or windows, etc.) | Jogging
Walking upstairs
Biking up a hill
Aerobics
Jump-roping
Sports, e.g. soccer, basketball, etc. |
Shape Up New York! |
Physical Activity Helps Keep Diabetes Under Control
Keeping blood glucose (sugar) close to normal helps prevent and delay diabetes complications. To keep your blood glucose at a healthy level, it is important to lead a healthy lifestyle and establish a daily routine that includes physical activity, good nutrition, and glucose monitoring.
Physical activity will help keep blood glucose (sugar) and weight under control. Start with a little activity every day and then add a few minutes on a weekly basis. Pick activities that you enjoy and that you can do with family and friends. Play at the park, go for a walk, ride bikes, go dancing, and turn off the TV for a day.
Walking, gardening and biking are generally safe, however people with diabetes should avoid certain activities if they have health problems. Talk with your healthcare provider about the types of physical activity that are right for you.
