Fitness Physical Activity refers to an activity that involves the contraction of muscles-examples are gardening, walking, climbing stairs, etc. On the other hand, exercise is a specific form of physical activity that is planned and structured involving repetitive bodily movements performed to improve and maintain physical fitness. Physical fitness is the set of goals that people have or achieved that relate to their ability to perform a physical activity. Levels of Physical Activity 1. Light intensity such as walking slowly and gardening. 2. Moderate intensity activity such as walking briskly, and playing leisure sports 3. Vigorous activity such as jogging, running, playing competitive sports, and circuit training Amount of Physical Activity Needed for Family Members It is recommended that children and adolescents participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity in most days of the week, preferably daily. And adults should engage in moderate intensity physical activity for at least 30 minutes in three or more days a week. Importance of Regular Physical Activity Reduces the risk of coronary disease Reduces the risk of colon cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression Controls body weight and maintains healthy bones, muscles and joints Promoting Safety Before Doing Physical Activities
1. Consult a physician before starting an exercise program or
workout. 2. Teach the members of the family the importance of monitoring the intensity of physical activity by increasing personal safety. 3. Stay within the “target heart rate zone” 4. Dress appropriately with fit and comfort 5. Always do a warm up exercise for 3-5 minutes 6. Progression: start slowly and gradually increase frequency intensity time, type 7. Drink plenty of water. Children and adolescents 7-10 Adults Physical Activity Pyramid Family Health-Related Fitness Plan Setting your goals is important in developing your HRF plan. Look into the needs of your family by referring to your outposts in the previous activities as basis for your plan. Making your Family Fitness Plan Your HRF plan must be simple and enjoyable and must be suited to the needs of your family to attain maximum level of physical fitness.