EXERCISE

Exercise can benefit both physical and mental health. It has been shown to reduce the risk of diseases or conditions such as cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and obesity. In addition, exercise through sport and recreation can provide social benefits through increased social interaction and integration (ABS 2009f).

In 2007-08, close to two-thirds (65%) of adults reported exercising for recreation, sport or fitness in the previous two weeks.

Over two-thirds (68%) of men and around three-quarters (76%) of women were assessed as having a low level of exercise or being sedentary. The proportion of people with a sedentary lifestyle has not changed substantially over the past decade or so.