Active Living
Active living refers to a lifestyle that includes physical activity on a regular basis. When people are active every day, they find it easier to maintain weight and prevent chronic diseases.
Why Is Physical Activity Important?
Not being active is related to many unhealthy conditions and illnesses, including:
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Osteoporosis
- Overweight and obesity
Being active can make you look and feel better now and keep you healthy for the future. Physical activity can help you:
- Control weight.
- Reduce anxiety and stress.
- Increase self-esteem.
- Strengthen bones, muscles, and joints.
- Potentially lower high blood pressure and cholesterol.
Is Washoe County physically active?
- Over 20% of adults in Washoe County have not been physically active in the last 30 days (Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2006).
- Less than half (46%) of high school students in Washoe County are physically active at least 5 days each week, and only 49% of middle school students are physically active at least 5 days each week (Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2007).
Where Can I Learn More?
