Lifelong Physical Activity - Key Concepts and Factors

University of Lethbridge - Lifelong Physical Activity

Lecture Objectives

• Understand the final stage of the Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD).
• Learn about the 8 Factors of Active for Life.

Physical Literacy Framework

• Concept of Physical Literacy: Importance of being active across life stages.
  • Key Stages of Development:
  • Active Start (Infants)
  • FUNdamentals
  • Learn to Train
  • Train to Train
  • Train to Compete
  • Train to Win (Competitive level)
  • Active for Life (All Canadians, including seniors)

Definitions of Physical Activity Domains

• Different Domains of Assessment:
  • Leisure-time activities (e.g., sports, recreation)
  • Commuting (active transportation)
  • Work-related activities (physical aspects of jobs)
  • Household tasks (chores and maintenance)

Eight Factors of Active for Life

1. Appropriate Physical Activity:

   • Considers age-related changes; distinguishing biological age from chronological age.

2. Cognitive Function:

   • Importance of exercise on enhancing cognitive abilities.
   • Impact of lifestyle factors on dementia risks.

3. Psychological Well-being:

   • Correlation between physical activity and improved mental health.
     • Higher rates of successful aging among active individuals (Baker, et al., 2009).

4. Social Connection:

   • Benefits of social support and community involvement in fitness programs.
   • Example: Participation in a community fitness class enhances physical activity and social interaction.

5. Embracing Life Transitions:

   • Key transition phases (e.g., post-secondary education, family life, retirement, health issues).
   • Understanding how types of physical activities can change during these transitions.

6. Managing Chronic Conditions:

   • Lifestyle modifications can lead to reduced dependence on medications and improved quality of life.

7. Mindful Nutrition:

   • Adapting dietary habits to avoid obesity and improve overall health as age increases (sarcopenia concerns).

8. Durability by Design:

   • Emphasis on diverse and enjoyable exercise opportunities.
   • Importance of resistance training, aerobic, balance, and flexibility exercises in adult fitness.

Summary of Eight Factors

• These factors promote an active lifestyle across the lifespan and emphasize the importance of adaptability and engagement in diverse physical activities.

Health Statistics

• Physical activity levels overview (CCHS 2021):
  • 150 minutes/week recommended for adults (18+ years).
  • Self-reported statistics demonstrate varied activity levels by age and gender.

Impact of Physical Activity

• Positive effects on:
  • Confidence and self-esteem,
  • Social interaction and community presence,
  • Overall quality of life.

Spiral Staircase of Physical Literacy

• Illustrates the connection between engagement in activities and improved well-being:
  • Increased participation leads to improved health, community involvement, adaptability, and greater retention in new activities.

Conclusive Notes

• Active for Life Stage: Lifelong embrace of physical literacy involves understanding the necessity and benefits of various forms of physical activity tailored to life stages.
• Reiterates the eight foundational factors that influence an active and fulfilling lifestyle.