The world health organisation defines physical activity as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure.Cognitive psychology learning and memory physical activity can take a number of forms. Exercise is a form of physical activity that is generally planned, structured, and repetitive which aims to improve or maintain one or more aspects of physical fitness. 1 sport also requires physical exertion, and or physical skill, which by its nature or organisation is competitive. 2Incidental activity is physical activity that is undertaken as part of carrying out normal daily life, such as climbing the stairs or walking the dog. 3 physical activity can also be categorised in terms of its function and effect, including resistance, aerobic, incidental, and active transport.Cognitive psychology learning and memory

While physical activity forms part of the body’s energy balance equation, all too often the benefits of physical activity are only considered in relation to obesity and weight loss.Cognitive psychology learning and memory the benefits of physical activity extend much further. Regular participation in physical activity is known to reduce the risk of physical health problems such as cardiovascular disease and stroke, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, some cancers and osteoporosis. 4, 5

cognitive psychology learning and memory

Due to the release of endorphins, physical activity can also improve mood. 6 regular participation in physical activity improves both short- and long- term psychosocial wellbeing by reducing feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. 7 there is scientific evidence to suggest physical activity can alleviate the symptoms of depression and it may also be useful in the treatment of mild to moderate depressive disorder. 8 A recent review confirmed the role of physical activity in reducing the symptoms of depression, but noted some methodological concerns and called for future research to consider the types and duration of physical activity that would provide the most benefit for those people with depression. 9

cognitive psychology learning and memory

Physical activity may also provide additional benefits for those who are already suffering from chronic health conditions. Based on estimates that between 60 and 70 per cent of the australian population is sedentary, or has low levels of physical activity, it has been suggested that increasing participation in physical activity by 10 per cent would lead to opportunity cost savings of $258 million, with 37 per cent of savings arising in the health sector. 10

cognitive psychology learning and memory

A lack of physical activity, or physical inactivity, has been identified as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. Estimates suggest that physical inactivity is the principal cause for approximately 21-25 per cent of breast and colon cancer disease burden, 27 per cent of diabetes, and 30 per cent of ischemic heart disease burden worldwide.Cognitive psychology learning and memory

Vigorous intensity physical activity (eg jogging or other aerobic exercise) generally provides increased health benefits. 1 1 however, it is important to recognise that some of the biggest health gains are made by those individuals who transition from being physical inactive (sedentary) to moderate amounts of physical activity.Cognitive psychology learning and memory evidence suggests that activities such as walking for half an hour a day on five days a week may increase life expectancy by 1.5 to 3 years. 12

cognitive psychology learning and memory

For adults, there are some forms of physical activity that have increased rates of injury. In some instances, safety equipment may be used to reduce risk of injury.Cognitive psychology learning and memory there are also risks associated with participation in too much exercise, particularly among those who have previously been sedentary. There is some risk inherent in the participation in almost all forms of exercise and sport. However, the benefits largely outweigh the risks, and efforts should be made to encourage participation.Cognitive psychology learning and memory

Trained first responders who have completed specific training in advanced first aid should be in attendance at sporting events with large numbers of participants because they can provide initial clinical management, prior to the arrival of paramedics or other medical professionals.Cognitive psychology learning and memory automated external defibrillators (aeds) should be accessible in all places where people participate in physical activity. Timely use of aeds can improve chances of survival for those individuals who suffer from a sudden cardiac event.Cognitive psychology learning and memory