Physiological benefits of physical activity

Author: ALI KHALIFA ALI AL-SHAMLI
Date: 18 April 2009

Scientific evidence shows that regular moderate to high intensity physical activities raised the physical fitness of the individual and it had positive influences on different body functions, and also had many health benefits (ACSM, 2000; Blair, et al., 1996; Fletcher, et al., 1996; Hardman & Stensel, 2003; Leon, 1997; Pollock, et al., 1998). In contrast, inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle led to many negative effects on the health of the individual and subsequently on the society (Booth, et al., 2000; Laukkanen, et al., 2001; Rwoland, 2002; WHO, 2004).
The close relationship between physical activity and health has prompted many scientific societies to put forward recommendations underscoring the importance of physical activity for health. These societies have also encouraged individuals to adopt an active lifestyle and urged governments and civil organizations to enact legislations promoting physical activity among their citizens. Supporting this idea there is one important report issued by the Surgeon General of the United States of America (US Dept. of Health, 1996) as a response to the joint document by the American Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) (Pate, et al., 1995). The report recommended that every adult should participate for 30 minutes or more in moderate-intensity physical activity during the week. In support, and to highlight the importance of physical activity the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2004 suggested a "Global strategy on diet, physical activity and health".

ALI KHALIFA ALI AL-SHAMLI

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