Dr Nnenna Chigbo, President of Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy (NSP), has advised Nigerians to engage in regular physical activity as a health enhancement measure.
Dr Nnenna Chigbo, made the call in a statement issued on Friday in Zaria as part of the activities to commemorate the 2021 World Physical Activity Day, observed on April 6.
According to her, regular physical activity has proven to help prevent and treat Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, breast and colon cancer.
She said the activity also helps to prevent hypertension, overweight and obesity and can improve mental health, quality of life and general well-being.
“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 COVID-19,” she said.
Report says that the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy celebrates World Physical Activity Day (WoPAD) in collaboration with the Exercise Is Medicine (EIM) initiative with the adopted theme: ‘Every Step Counts’.
Chigbo said the association was also working closely with the World Health Organisation to build the active societies envisaged in the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018 to 2030.
She also urged parents to inculcate physical activity into the lifestyle of every normal child.
“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 Organisation 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,’’ Chigbo said.
She added that for substantial health benefits, adults should do at least 150 minutes to 300 minutes a week of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes to 150 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity,” Chigbo said.