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Communities
urged to get active
With
better weather and brighter evenings on the way, the Health
Promotion Agency is urging the public
to ‘get active’ by launching a new phase of the
high profile ‘Get a life, get active’ physical
activity campaign.
One of the main messages of the campaign is that it is more
beneficial to do just 30 minutes of moderate activity on
most days of the week, rather than one vigorous workout once
a week. Physical activity can include anything that gets
the heart pumping such as brisk walking, gardening, swimming,
climbing stairs, and even housework.
In Northern Ireland recent research has shown that 62% of
men and 61% of women are either overweight or obese. Research
has shown that regular exercise can positively improve health
and prevent serious illnesses such as heart disease and strokes,
yet 80% of women and 70% of men in Northern Ireland do not
take enough physical activity to benefit their health. Research
also shows that two thirds of the population aged 65 or more
do no physical activity at all.
As part
of this campaign the HPA is also launching the Get Active
in
the Community Cash Grant Awards 2004, a scheme
that has already helped thousands of people get moving towards
a healthier lifestyle, with cash grants of up to £500.
Information about the grants scheme and application forms
is being sent to voluntary organisations, community groups,
schools and the physical activity coordinators at Health
and Social Services Boards. Application forms can also
be obtained by calling 0845 601 22 77.
The closing date for applications is 19 March 2004.
Launching
the campaign and the grants scheme, Dr Brian Gaffney, HPA’s
Chief Executive said: “The
evaluation of past physical activity campaigns has shown
that they have
helped increase activity levels as well as improve knowledge
of the health benefits of physical activity such as reducing
the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and help control
body weight. It is also an investment for an independent,
healthy future.
“The
grants scheme is an important element of this campaign
as it increases
the opportunities within the community
for participation in physical activity.”
Information leaflets and posters produced as part of this
campaign will be distributed to GP surgeries, pharmacies
and Health and Social Services Boards. The television advertising
will run until 31 March 2004.
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