Drive to get adults active

Physiotherapists urged adults today to get up and go and step up their physical activity.

The Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP) launched its 'Move 4 Health 2008' campaign with advice for anyone about to embark on exercise.

Throughout the month of March, the health specialists will promote the campaign in their local areas and be available to support local work forces.

ISCP chair Grainne Duffin said chartered physiotherapists have a responsibility to promote physical activity.

“We know its health value for people of all ages,” she said.

“Recent 'Go for Life' and Irish Sports Council research found that only 15% of older people in Ireland are healthily active and this is of concern.

“If adults take 30 minutes of moderate activity five days a week they are deemed healthily active – and the benefits to both physical and mental health are significant.”

This year’s campaign is designed to encourage physical activity for adults of all ages as it can reduce stress levels, the risk of developing diseases such as type II diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancer, improve sleep patterns and help manage conditions such as back pain.

Ms Duffin added that anyone about to begin exercise should have a medical check-up first, set an attainable goal, and listen to your body if feeling dizzy, nauseous or uncomfortable.