What are the benefits of being active?
Healthy Ageing - Appetite for Life Manual
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This general advice was accurate at the time of publication. For more information about physical activity and your individual needs, see your GP or an Accredited Exercise Physiologist.
Physical benefits
Keeping active helps to keep your muscles and bones strong and your heart and lungs healthy. Being fit and strong can:
- Lower your chance of having a fall.
- Make it easier to live independently in your own home for longer.
- Help you to feel more energetic and sleep better at night.
- Reduce your risk of heart attacks, stroke, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes. If you already have any of these conditions, being active can help manage them.
Mental benefits
Being active is one of the best ways to:
- Help manage stress.
- Reduce the risk of anxiety and depression.
- Help you concentrate and learn.
- Improve your memory.
Social benefits
Getting out and being active is a great way to connect with your friends and family. Some ideas include:
- Spend time playing with your grandchildren.
- Go for a walk with friends.
- Join a physical activity group to meet new people.
Budget benefits
- Walking instead of driving can help save petrol. This is good for the environment, and for your wallet!
- Staying healthy can reduce your healthcare costs in the long-term.
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Fact sheets