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Why Be Active?

Setting the Scene - the Burden of Physical Inactivity in Australia

  • 8,000 deaths per year are attributable to physical inactivity1
  • Physical inactivity costs the health system $400 million annually1
  • Physical inactivity is the second most modifiable risk factor that contributes to disease, morbidity and mortality in Australia (tobacco is first)2

Physical Activity levels in Australia

  • 65% of males and 74% of females are not sufficiently active for health benefits3

Obesity Levels in Australia4

  • 52% of Australian women and 67% of Australian men are overweight or obese
  • 25% of Australian children are currently overweight or obese
  • Obesity is costing the Australian government up to $1.5 billion a year in direct health costs

Benefits of Physical Activity

  • boosts energy levels and improves mood
  • reduces risk of chronic diseases
  • reduces stress and tension
  • improves balance and flexibility
  • improves sleep
  • assists in weight management
  • increases muscle and bone mass
  • increases circulation
  • increases the ability of people with certain chronic, disabling conditions to perform activities of daily living

Many people often ask the relationship between physical activity and the recommendation of 10,000 Steps a day. Read our next section 'Why 10,000 Steps a day?' to find out more.

 

1Stephenson J, Bauman A, Armstrong T et al. (2000). The costs of illness attributable to physical inactivity. Canberra: Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care
2 Mathers C, Vos T, Stevenson C. (1999). Burden of disease Aden injury in Australia, AIHW Catalogue PHE 17, Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
3 Australian Bureau of Statistics (2001) "National Health Survey, Australia". Catalogue 4364.0
4 Australasian Society for the Study of Obesity (2005). Statistics & Prevalence Data. www.asso.org.au/home/quicklinks/fastfacts