ESSA highlights the importance of movement this Exercise Right Week

With the theme for Exercise Right Week 2020 (25th -31st May) being ‘Movement is Medicine’, Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) are striving to keep Australians of all ages active and healthy.

The Exercise Right Week campaign aims to help change public perception around exercise by highlighting the fact that movement is for everyone, regardless of age, background or health status.

ESSA Chief Executive, Anita Hobson-Powell notes “Each year, Exercise Right Week seeks to remind Australians about the benefits of exercise and physical activity, and the importance of seeking out the right professional for individualised advice.

“This year’s theme is ‘Movement is Medicine’, and with many people facing additional barriers to staying active due to COVID-19, we feel this message has never been more important.”

Many people view exercise as simply a tool for weight loss, however, the benefits of an active lifestyle reach far beyond fitting into your jeans this winter.

Exercise helps to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some cancers, and can help to protect against mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.

It’s also vital for brain health and can reduce your risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease as you age.

The message is simple; individuals who exercise regularly and maintain high levels of physical activity tend to live longer, happier and healthier lives than those who are inactive.

Hobson-Powell adds “if you could squeeze all the health benefits of exercise into a pill, it’d be the most prescribed drug in the country.

“Yet, despite the countless health benefits, less than half of all Australians adults meet the current physical activity guidelines.

“We want to inspire everyone, especially those who are living with or at risk of developing a chronic condition, to get active and to find a qualified exercise professional to help them move their way to better health.”

Throughout next week, Australians can access free online events, like education sessions, online exercise classes and Q&A sessions hosted by the exercise experts. 

To learn more about the campaign, visit the Exercise Right website.