NSP counsels Nigerians on benefits of regular physical exercise

National President, Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy, NSP, Dr. (Mrs.) Nnenna Chigbo, has advised Nigerians to always engage in regular physical activity as a health enhancement measure.

In an address to mark the World Physical Activity Day 2021, Chigbo said “regular physical activity is proven to help prevent and treat non-communicable diseases, NCDs such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, breast and colon cancer.”

She added that it also helps to prevent hypertension, overweight and obesity and can improve mental health, quality of life and general well-being.

According to her, NSP, as one of the health-related professional associations working with the World Health Organization, WHO to build the active societies envisaged in the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018-30, has been advocating the inculcation of physical activity into the lifestyle of every Nigerian.

“Physical activity refers to any bodily movement produced by the skeletal muscles that demand energy expenditure. It involves activities like walking, engaging in household chores, recreational pursuits.

“The World Health Organization recommends at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily for children and adolescents between ages 5 and 17 years.

“Physical activity beyond 60 minutes is highly recommended because it offers greater health benefits. Children and adolescents should engage in intense physical activity that strengthens muscles and bones at least thrice a week.

“For substantial health benefits, adults should do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) to 300 minutes (5 hours) a week of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes (1 hour and 15 minutes) to 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity”, Chigbo stated .

She said the NSP is ready to work with government and non-governmental agencies for the country to achieve the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity which is to reduce physical inactivity by 10% in the year 2025 and 15% by 2030..

According to her, the association celebrates this year’s World Physical Activity Day, WoPAD, in collaboration with the Exercise is Medicine, EIM initiative with the adopted theme, “Every Step Counts”.

To celebrate the day, she said “participants can walk, dance, skip, engage in an aerobic workout, jog or run any time of the day and anywhere (including gyms, private homes and neighbourhoods) that is safe considering the COVID-19 pandemic.”