World Physiotherapy Day: Movement for Life

World Physiotherapy Day: Movement for Life
Media release | Physiotherapy New Zealand

2 September, 2013

For World Physiotherapy Day (8 September), physiotherapists are reminding New Zealanders that the single most important thing we can do for our health is to be active.

“Choose activities you like and can afford, not what you think you should be doing,” says Physiotherapy New Zealand President Gill Stotter. “Otherwise you’re unlikely to stay active. Build fun movement into your lifestyle – and see the difference!”

There is a huge range of ways to get active – from walking or biking, to joining an exercise class, to playing a sport, Ms Stotter points out. “Walking is a wonderful exercise, in fact researchers have estimated that if everyone took a brisk walk most days, there would be 30% fewer deaths from heart attacks and strokes. Use your imagination, and remember that housework and gardening count as activities too,” she says.

Another suggestion Ms Stotter makes is to seize the ordinary little moments as chances to be active at home and at work. “Ask yourself,” she says, “How can I make the normal things I do more active?” She also realises that some people are not keen on the idea of activity. “If you’re put off by the idea of exercise, try taking up again a hobby you enjoyed with a little activity included.”

Along these lines, Physiotherapy New Zealand has five tips to start off with.
1. Digital-free Give yourself a regular time when you switch off all your digital devices and do something active instead.
2. The mobile mobile If you are making a call on your mobile you can walk around while you talk.
3. Active meetings If others agree, sometimes take your discussions outside for a few minutes’ walk. You could stop for a cup of coffee on the way.
4. Walk the message If you find yourself sending short emails to others in the office like, “Yes, I agree,” walk over to tell them in person. Good for relationships as well as health!
5. Maintain good posture This is an all-day exercise.
For those whose imagination is flagging, physiotherapists provide many more tips on http://pinterest.com/physionz/100-physio-tips/ There is more information about activity and medical conditions on www.physiotherapy.org.nz

ENDS.

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