450 US health behav day 1

Global Physical Inactivity

  • Course: EXSC 450

  • Title: Global Physical Inactivity

Objectives

  • Know the physical activity guidelines.

  • Understand the rates of physical inactivity and obesity in the US and globally.

  • Analyze factors influencing engagement in physical activity (PA) and methods of measuring it.

Physical Activity Importance

  • Factors influencing engagement in physical activity.

  • Sedentary behavior is linked to numerous diseases, prominently affecting cardiovascular health.

  • Physical Activity Guidelines:

    • Moderate activity: 150 minutes per week.

    • Vigorous activity: 70 minutes per week.

    • Strength training: 2-3 times a week, with adequate recovery time.

Obesity

  • Obesity rates are alarmingly high.

  • Example: Anita, who is 4’11" (1.5m) and weighs 66kg, has a BMI calculated as follows:

    • Formula for BMI: BMI = weight (kg) / (height (m) x height (m))

    • Anita's BMI: 66 / (1.5 x 1.5) = 29 indicating obesity.

Causes of Obesity

  • The issue of obesity is complex; it is not merely a matter of willpower.

  • Contributing factors include:

    • Environment: Obesogenic environment—a setting that encourages obesity by shaping habits and behaviors.

    • The map from Newcastle University (2015) highlights the prevalence and patterns of obesity globally.