The benefits of physical activity

Being physically active helps you feel better, boosts energy levels, improves mood, and contributes to greater satisfaction in everyday life.

Physical activity helps the heart work more efficiently and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
People who are sedentary—that is, those who move little or not at all—have about twice the risk of dying from heart disease compared with those who engage in regular physical activity.

Physical activity helps make muscles stronger and bones more resilient.
This is particularly important with advancing age and for women after menopause, a period when the risk of osteoporosis increases.

Physical activity helps burn excess calories and supports the development of muscle mass.
More muscle means a more active metabolism—an organism that uses more energy even at rest.

Regular physical activity helps the body use the sugars in the blood more efficiently, helping to lower blood glucose levels.

This reduces the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes, a very common condition often linked to physical inactivity, excess weight, and unhealthy eating habits.

Physical activity is important both for preventing the disease and helping to manage it.

People who are sedentary have a higher risk of developing hypertension.

Physical activity—especially aerobic activities such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling—helps lower and keep blood pressure under control.

Being physically active helps to:

• Reduce “bad” cholesterol (LDL)

• Increase “good” cholesterol (HDL), helping to protect the arteries

Regular physical activity helps the body defend itself more effectively against infections and supports the proper functioning of the body’s natural defenses.

Regular moderate-intensity physical activity can help reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly hormone-related cancers, such as Breast Cancer, Uterine Cancer, and Prostate Cancer.

This benefit is part of a healthy lifestyle, which also includes a balanced diet and avoiding smoking.