National Health Goals

Introduction

Factors to Consider Prior to Physical Activity

• Before beginning regular physical activity, it is important to establish medical readiness.
• Shoes are an important consideration for safe and effective exercise.
• It is important to keep up with advancing technology in shoes and sports equipment.
• It is important to dress properly for physical activity.

Factors to Consider During Daily Physical Activity

• There are three key components of the daily activity program: the warm-up, the workout, and the cool-down.
• A warm-up prior to exercise is recommended.
• A cool-down after the workout is important to promote an effective recovery from physical activity.

Physical Activity in the Heat and Cold

• Physical activity in hot and humid environments challenges the body's heat loss mechanisms.
• Heat related illness can occur if proper hydration is not maintained.
• Acclimatization improves the body's tolerance in the heat.
• Precautions should be taken when doing activity in hot and humid environments.
• Physical activity in exceptionally cold and windy weather can be dangerous.
• When doing activity in cold, wet and windy weather, precautions should be taken.

Physical Activity in Other Environments

• High altitude may limit performance and require adaptation of normal physical activity.
• Exposure to air pollution should be minimized.

Soreness and Injury

• Understanding soreness can help you persist in physical activity and avoid problems.
• The most common injuries incurred in physical activity are sprains and strains.
• Being able to treat minor injuries will help reduce their negative effects.
• Muscle cramps can be relieved by statically stretching a muscle.

Attitudes about Physical Activity

• Knowing the most common reasons for inactivity can help you avoid sedentary living.
• Knowing the reasons people give for being active can help you adopt positive attitudes to activity.

Strategies for Action

• Screening for risks can help make activity safer.
• A proper warm-up and cool-down can make activity more effective and more enjoyable.

Web Resources

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