Coronary Heart Disease Prevention

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Do you know that:

· Regular Physical Activity greatly lowers the risk of CHD
· In England only 55% of boys and 39% of girls are active at the recommended levels
· 70 - 80% of adults in South Sefton are not active enough to maintain or improve their Heart Health

Physical activity is now recognised as an essential tool in reducing heart disease, stroke and obesity. Men who fail to take sufficient exercise have twice the risk of heart disease as their more active counterparts.
Physical activity levels in the South Sefton though are worryingly low, with 7 out of 10 males and 8 out of 10 females not active enough to protect against heart disease.

To achieve positive health gains individuals should be physically active for at least 30 minutes on 5 days of the weeks. When you consider the 30 minutes can be split into two 15 minute sessions and that everyday activities such as heavy gardening, walking, getting off the bus or simply using the stairs instead of the lift, it does not have to be a major change to your life. The activity should raise you hear rate slightly, making you feel warmer and slightly out of breath. There are a variety of FREE or low cost opportunities across South Seton including, guided walks, cycling, exercise classes, swimming, childrens and young people sessions, workplace activity and many more.

If you have any existing medical conditions or have not exercised for a while please speak to your practice nurse before starting.

For information on what is available in your area or suggestions as to the type of activity you would like to see please phone EXCEL on 0151 284 1656.