Larry is 50 years old and his BMI is within the “healthy” range. He eats a pretty healthy diet, but his doctor has been telling him that he needs to incorporate regular physical activity into his daily life. Larry doesn’t understand why the doctor wants him to do this since he is at a healthy weight. Describe for Larry at least five benefits that physically fit individuals enjoy, other than

Question

improved body composition.

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answers will vary but should include at least five of the benefits described below.
• Restful sleep. Rest and sleep occur naturally after periods of physical activity.
• Nutritional health. Physical activity expends energy and thus allows people to eat more food. If they choose wisely, active people will consume more nutrients and be less likely to develop nutrient deficiencies.
• Improved bone density. Weight-bearing physical activity builds bone strength and protects against osteoporosis.
• Resistance to colds and other infectious diseases. Fitness enhances immunity.
• Low risks of some cancers. Lifelong physical activity may help to protect against colon cancer, breast cancer, and some other cancers.
• Strong circulation and lung function. Physical activity that challenges the heart and lungs strengthens the circulatory system.
• Low risk of cardiovascular disease. Physical activity lowers blood pressure, slows resting pulse rate, and lowers blood cholesterol, thus reducing the risks of heart attacks and strokes. Some research suggests that physical activity may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in another way as well by reducing visceral fat stores.
• Low risk of type 2 diabetes. Physical activity normalizes glucose tolerance. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and improves glucose control.
• Reduced risk of gallbladder disease. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of gallbladder disease perhaps by facilitating weight control and lowering blood lipid levels.
• Low incidence and severity of anxiety and depression. Physical activity may improve mood and enhance the quality of life by reducing depression and anxiety.
• Strong self-image. The sense of achievement that comes from meeting physical challenges promotes self-confidence.
• Long life and high quality of life in the later years. Active people live longer, healthier lives than sedentary people do. Even as little as 15 minutes a day of moderate-intensity activity can add years to a person’s life. In addition to extending longevity, physical activity supports independence and mobility in later life by reducing the risk of falls and minimizing the risk of injury should a fall occur