One-fifth of Irish people never exercise, says report

One-fifth of Irish people never exercise at all, while one-quarter only exercise once-a-month or less, according to a new survey.

The Irish Osteoporosis Society has expressed concern about the findings, saying that two-thirds of people are unaware that weight-bearing exercise is necessary for preventing brittle bones.

Weight-bearing exercise is where the body is fully supported by the feet, as opposed to cardio-vascular exercise like swimming.

The society says it is also concerned about the fact that two-thirds of Irish people have never been properly assessed for osteoporosis, leaving them at increased risk of suffering fractures in later life.

It is calling for an awareness campaign to educate the public about the importance of weight-bearing exercise.