Active for life
The importance of lifelong physical activity
Physical activity is essential to the development and maintenance of a healthy mind and body. Without we will lose strength and become susceptible to problems such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, stress and high cholesterol.
Health is described as multi-dimensional, meaning it comprises of physical, social, cognitive, emotional and spiritual components
The world health organization defines health as: A state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity
Barriers to physical activity
Barrier
Solution
Cost
Community equipment
Exercise can be free
Injury
Rehabilitation programs
Weather
Indoor/outdoor
Time
Incorporate incidental physical activity
Weight
Small steps/goals
Disability
Alternative exercises, mentors and helpers
Family influence
Community sport, social sport
Education
Web, libraries, compulsory PDHPE
Access
Physical activity at home
Depression
Seek help
Value
Influence such as family, friends, media education

Attitudes and expectations
Peers, parents and coaches are all examples of external influences on our expectations, and this paired with our attitudes can affect or participation and performance
The effects can be both positive and negative
Those who have a positive attitude towards the coach, peers and or officials normally stay involved with the sport longer, whereas those who are uncomfortable often cease their participation
Planning for lifelong physical activity
To help achieve lifelong physical activity we need to ensure we prioritise physical activity and that we value our health
We need to set short and long term goals to help us maintain a regular P.A routine
Time management is an important skill for planning lifelong physical activity
Encouraging others to participate
As advocates (promoters) for health we can equip others with the skills and knowledge necessary to participate in physical activity
Participating safely in physical activity
Safety should always be a key consideration when planning or participating in physical activity. The three main factors that influence safe participation are:
Behavioural factors
The physical or behavioural characteristics of an individual athlete can out them at greater risk of injury or accident, such as age, low fitness level, poor diet and poor technique
Environmental factors
The environment plays a major contributing role in many sport injuries, for example the type and condition of the playing surface, the time of the season, weather conditions and time of day
Organisational factors
Compulsory or recommended protective equipment has been developed to suit the individual characteristics of each individual athlete
Rules and regulations
Each sport develops rules and regulations to ensure the safety of participants, sometimes referred to as a ‘code of conduct’, to prevent injury or risk and assure fair play and enjoyment
Roles in physical activity
In sport there are many roles that can be adopted to ensure successful participation in physical activity, including:
Administrative
The administrative role involves organising and coordinating various aspects within an organisation or facility. They are generally concerned with behind the scenes task such as promotions, equipment orders, stocktake and banking
Officials
The role of people who run/organise matches and fixtures and who regulate the rules and prepare the grounds. For example referees, grounds manager and officials.
Medical
Responsible for the wellbeing of short and long term injured players. They help rehab them to full strength and advice in medical action. Examples include sports doctors, physiotherapists and sports trainers
Performance
Help to develop and improve player’s individual, specific and overall performance. Also advice in techniques and skill sets. Strength and condition coaches, tactics coaches, skill