Physical activity provides many social benefits. Leisure-time physical activity helps people participate more fully in the community and build non-family support networks. It gives individuals a sense of connectedness with their community, increases personal confidence, improves quality of life and decreases anti-social behaviour.
Economic gains are also expected in an active community from savings in health care costs and household expenditure associated with participation in recreation and sports (which also benefits sectors such as tourism and transport). Reduced absenteeism and increased productivity and morale are also associated with a physically active workforce.
Environmental benefits can be realised through active modes of transport (e.g. walking or cycling to work or the local shop). They include reduced air pollution and traffic congestion, and decreased space required to store, drive and park motor vehicles.
Finally, there are significant health benefits associated with an active lifestyle. Physical activity:
- improves quality of life and life expectancy among adults (even if physical activity is adopted later in life)
- halves the risk of heart disease and stroke
- reduces the risk of some cancers (e.g. colon and breast cancer)
- reduces the risk and improves the management of the most common form of diabetes
- assists with the prevention of falls in the elderly by maintaining bone density and muscle strength and flexibility
- reduces the symptoms of depression and anxiety, lowers levels of stress and increases self-esteem
- assists with weight management.