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3-Pointer (Jan 11)
Now there's a big surprise! Ya'll better sit down for this one. It seems that Vince Carter has admitting to...are you ready...not playing hard all the time with the Raptors. Hello? You still there? Yes folks, it's true. The sky is blue, what...

Basketball History
The father of basketball, Dr. James Naismith came up with the game in 1892 and the first game was played in Beaver Falls Pennsylvania on April 8 1893 between the New Brighton YMCA and the Geneva College. The game was very popular and by 1914...

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The automotive industry is an ever-changing industry. Every phase in the history of cars is highlighted by technical innovations and new car concepts that are aimed at improving the people’s widely used means of transportation. As cars became more...

 
The Importance of Physical Activity

Regular activity, fitness and exercise, are critical for the health and well being of people of all ages. Research shows that everyone , young or old can benefit from regular exercise, either vigourous or moderate. Even very old adults can improve mobility and function through physical activity. It should be a priority for everyone. Millions of people suffer from chronic illnesses, that can significantly improve through activity. Exercise reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, and high blood pressure. People who are active outlive those who are inactive.

Despite the well known benefits, most adults and children lead relatively sedentary lifestyles. They are not active enough. A sedentary lifestyle is defined as engaging in no leisure-time physical activity (exercises, sports, physically active hobbies) in a two-week period. Typically alot of older people lead sedentary lifestyles. More than one-third of young people in grades 9-12 do not exercise regularly. They tend to watch too much television.

The cost to the medical establishment is in the billions for treatments of diseases, which could be lessened with exercise. Regular exercise should be 30 mins, 5 days a week. Or 20 mins of vigourous exercise 3 times a week. Physical activity maintains muscle strength, joint structure, joint functioning and bone health. Exercise has an effect on


mental health as well, especially amoung young people. It increases the capacity for learning, increases self esteem and reduces anxiety and stress. Sports can introduce skills such as teamwork, self-discipline, sportsmanship, leadership and socialization. Lack of recreational activity may contribute to making young people susceptible to gangs, drugs or violence.

Obesity has become a nationwide epidemic. Regular activity, along with a nutritious diet, that incorporates portion control is the key to maintaining a healthy weight. Public and private sectors need to band together to encourage more activity. Walking programs for schools, worksites and the local community are some examples. The most important change has to come from the individual and families. Every person must realize the benefits of physical activity for the mind and body. Then commit to a lifestyle that is active for the whole family.

About the Author

I live in Toronto, Ontario. I live with my partner of 11 years. I also have a 12 year old son. I have been writing since I was young. I write short stories, articles and poetry. I have been writing for Allwrite online magazine for sometime. I have won Poetry Choice Awards from, The National Library of Poetry. I attended a convention in my youth where I won medals for my writing. I have had a poem published in Webster's Online Dictionary.