Level of Physical Activity

1. Level of Physical Activity Behavioural Determinants

2. Behavioural Determinants Behavioral determinants are the decisions people make and how they choose to live their lives. Sun-protection, physical activity and a well- balanced diet are all a type of behavioral determinants.

3. What is Physical Activity? Physical activity is any bodily activity that enhances or maintains physical fitness and overall health. It is performed for various reasons. These include strengthening muscles and the cardiovascular system, honing athletic skills, weight loss or maintenance and for enjoyment. By doing 20-30 minutes exercise a day a person can lessen the chances of them developing any of the following diseases. • Heart disease and strokes • Obesity (being overweight) • Diabetes Type 2 • High Blood pressure • Osteoporosis

4. Why is Physical activity a determinant of Health? Physical activity is a determinant of health because it is needed to prevent any major health risks and weaves in with all the types of health; Mental, Social, Physical & Intellectual. Physical activity is a behavioural determinant because a person must make the choice to do exercise. They can not be forced to do it, it is their choice and up to them to become disciplined enough to do so. Especially in childhood so they can continue their exercise patterns when they are adults.

5. Social Health & Physical Activity Different forms of exercise or physical activity such as football and netball, promote social interaction (an aspect of social health). People may also be exposed to different social groups as opposed to their normal friendship groups and learn different social skills, which is also an aspect of social development. In children especially, there can be an improved sense of belonging if they play a team sport or in the worst case scenario, they can become outcasts if they do not participate in a team sport. Physical activity also encourages family and community connectedness; Families become supportive when they play sport and the community tends to get involved with their local sport teams and like to support them when they verse opposing teams.

6. Physical Health& Physical Activity By having a higher level of physical activity, people can reduce the chance of developing health conditions and diseases. Exercising daily can strengthen the heart muscles to prevent a stroke or cardiovascular disease. It can raise high- density lipoprotein (good cholesterol) and lower low- density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) improving the blood flow and increases the hearts working capacity. It prevents obesity by reducing body fat, building or preserving muscle mass and improving the body’s abilities to use calories. It is better to establish a pattern during youth which can be carried through to adulthood to maintain the ideal weight.

7. Mental Health& Physical Activity When a person exercises chemicals produced by the brain are released and increase the feelings of well being and decrease the stress and anxiety levels. These chemicals are called endorphins. They are the body’s natural pain reliever with similar effects to morphine (minus the negative effects). They also help improve peoples moods and result in positive mental health. Individuals who suffer from depression or anxiety are recommended to exercise daily so they increase their endorphin levels and decrease their negative feelings, resulting in a positive mind. Even though exercise mainly has a positive effect, it can also have a negative influence when an individual becomes “addicted” to exercise and the happy feeling that comes with it. The “addiction” to exercise can lead to the degradation of a persons body if they over exercise.

8. Intellectual Health& Physical Activity Physical activities actually have an influence over the way we think intellectually. After exercising, most people find it easier to concentrate on their studies (I know this from personal experience).

9. Bibliography • http://www.beactive.wa.gov.au/docs/benefits%20of%20physical%20activity.pdf • http://www.nutristrategy.com/health.htm • http://www.goforyourlife.vic.gov.au/hav/articles.nsf/pracpages/Mental_health_and_physical_activity_case_studies?open