Lets Get Moving (MAY2026) FINAL inc. Acknowledgement - Flipbook - Page 6
Why it’s important to move
Moving your body most days, even just a little, can have a big impact. It helps improve your 昀椀tness, boosts your mood,
supports mental health, strengthens your immune system, and keeps your body working well, including things like blood
昀氀ow, digestion, and sleep. For children and young people, it also supports healthy growth and development. But the
bene昀椀ts go beyond just your own health. Being active can help the wider community too. It supports the local economy,
boosts productivity, and helps reduce healthcare costs. It also brings people together, builds stronger neighbourhoods,
and supports a healthier environment by lowering pollution and carbon emissions. Plus, when we have safer and more
accessible places to walk, ride, or get around without a car, it makes our streets better for everyone.
Co bene昀椀ts of physical activity (Bellew et al, 2020).
Economic growth:
productivity, reduced healthcare costs.
Environmental sustainability/
climate change mitigation:
reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality.
Wellbeing:
strategies to increase population wellbeing
are increasing across jurisdictions and physical
activity is a major contributor.
Strengthening communities:
boosting neighbourhood and social capital,
social wellbeing.
Health:
a wide range of physical and mental health
bene昀椀ts for general and priority populations.
Safety:
injury reduction, infrastructure for active travel.
Physical activity guidelines
The Australian Government Department of Health recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical
activity every day.
We know it can be tricky to get started, so try starting with 10 minutes a day. After 1-2 weeks, try 15 minutes a day.
Try di昀昀erent ways of being active until you 昀椀nd something that you enjoy and works for you.
If you’re unsure about how to start or the right amount of physical activity for you, seek support from a medical
professional for advice tailored to you.
Visit the Australian Government Department of Health website for more information about physical
activity guidelines https://www.health.gov.au/topics/physical-activity-and-exercise/physical-activityand-exercise-guidelines-for-all-australians
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Let’s Get Moving active on any budget across Greater Bendigo
