Be Active – Stay Alive

The importance of fitness in the improvement of quality of life and the minimising of risk factors which contribute to morbidity and mortality cannot be underestimated. It is now recognised that there are a number of tangible benefits which may be experienced by the individual as a result of participation in regular physical activity. This includes: reduced risk of heart disease; increased ability to cope with stress; control of obesity; decreased hypertension and hyperlipidemia; and reduction in fluctuations in blood sugar. For this reason, the Queensland Recreational Council has published a manual recommending 30 minutes of brisk activity, four times a week. This activity can include brisk walking, cycling, swimming or other aerobic activities.