UNIT 2 – Physical activity concepts and health outcomes

Benefits of physical activity There are many well-documented benefits

associated with regular participation in physical activity

Can you name as many benefits of physical activity that you can think of?

Benefits of physical activity ‘The physically active body is healthier and

works more efficiently than the inactive body because in evolutionary terms the human species is adapted to the hunter-gatherer existence’ Hippocrates

Physical benefits Refer to page 254 of your text for an in

depth guide of all of the benefits of physical activity

Physical benefits IMPROVED CARDIOVASCULAR

FUNCTION When you are regularly active the

strength and size of your heart muscle increases

A stronger heart pumps more blood around the body

Therefore more oxygen is delivered to the brain

Overall this means you can work harder

Physical benefits IMPROVED STRENGTH AND

ENDURANCE Regular exercise increases the strength

and endurance of muscles Stronger muscles decreases the risk of

injury Maintaining muscular strength as you

age assists in maintaining mobility and slows the rate of functional decline

Physical benefits RESISTANCE TO FATIGUE Having increased energy levels allows

you to have enough energy to get through a typical day

Increased energy levels are associated with an improved ability to cope with stress and improved quality of life

Physical benefits GREATER LEAN BODY MASS AND

LESS BODY FAT High levels of physical activity assists in

an increase in lean body mass made up of muscles, tendons and ligaments, and a decrease in body fat

What do you think determines a fit and lean athlete?

Physical benefits GREATER LEAN BODY MASS AND

LESS BODY FAT This athlete is deemed overweight due to

their height and body composure Put the scales away and understand

what looks and feels healthy

Physical benefits IMPROVED FLEXIBILITY Regular stretching can lead to a greater

range of movement and can improve sporting performance and reduce your risk of injury

Physical benefits

It’s amazing what the human body is capable of

Physical benefits

Social benefits

There are many social benefits of physical activity

Interacting with other people increases a person’s connectedness within the community

Socialising when you are active is able to improve self confidence, quality of life and sense of wellbeing

Social benefits

Mental health benefits

This has been a huge area over the past 10 years

Research shows that active people have greater self-esteem and lower levels of anxiety

Good quality of sleep is essential for all aspects of your life

More active people have a lower risk of suffering dementia or depression

Lifestyle physical activity As a class participate in an lifestyle physical

activity QUESTIONS Identify potential target groups who would

benefit from the activity that you participated in and describe why you have selected each target group

Describe the health benefits associated with participation in this activity

Outline all of the safety issues that need to be considered for the designated activity

What did you enjoy or not enjoy about this activity?