Physical activity for a healthy life

Res Q Exerc Sport. 1996 Jun;67(2):213-5. doi: 10.1080/02701367.1996.10607946.

Abstract

The evidence surveyed by Blair and Connelly (1996) now provides a clearly outlined challenge for action in applying physical activity for health promotion. Strategies to choose are single risk or broad spectrum within an individual or community approach. The 20-year results of the broad spectrum, community intervention in North Karelia, Finland more than halved the coronary mortality of participants aged 35-64 years (Puska, Tuomilehto, Vartiainen, Korhonen, & Torppa, 1995). Many facets of human lives, including physical activity, were charted in another project: the 11-year follow-up of Finnish municipal employees aged 45-58 years at entry into the project (Tuomi, 1991). In this project, physical activity showed marked positive associations with work capacity, lifestyle, and well-being. Thus, in addition to reducing morbidity and mortality, physical activity and fitness also promote mental and social health and improve the quality of life.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Exercise / physiology*
  • Female
  • Health Promotion*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Physical Fitness / physiology
  • Quality of Life