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What is be active?

be active is a whole-of-government campaign which promotes the message that we all need to be physically active. It does not matter if this means walking the dog, playing with children at the park, using the State’s many bicycle paths or playing local, State or international sport. be active encourages and supports lifelong involvement in physical activity by all South Australians.

be active is the key message of the State Physical Activity Strategy which aims to

increase the number of South Australians regularly participating in physical activity. This aligns with the national Physical Activity Guidelines that encourages people t

  1. • Think of movement as an opportunity, not an inconvenience.

  2. • Be active every day in as many ways as you can.

  3. • Put together at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most, preferably all, days.

  4. • If possible, also enjoy some regular, vigorous exercise for extra health and fitness benefits.

Physical Activity in South Australia – the facts

South Australian Physical Activity surveys in 1998 and 2001 show:

  1. • Only 52% of adults are sufficiently physically active to benefit their health.

  2. • At least 17% are inactive and a further 31% are not active enough.

  3. • There is also a decline in the activity levels of our children.

Research shows that many people think it is difficult to be physically active, believing that a major time commitment and vigorous physical activity is required for it to be worthwhile. This is not true. In fact, 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week is all it takes – and this can even be done as three periods of 10 minutes!

Being active gives our bodies the exercise required in order to maintain our strength, fitness and well-being. It provides us with a variety of benefits both as individuals and as a community.

Physical inactivity can increase the health risks of diseases such as high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer.

For further information or advice about be active go to www.beactive.com.au

This information has been developed with the assistance of the Department of Health and the be active-Find 30 Campaign.