The Department of Health of the Australian Government prides itself with a world class health system that supports universal and affordable access to high quality medical, hospital, and pharmaceutical services. It aims to help people stay healthy by promoting health and disease prevention activities.
The Australian Department of Health is highly involved in their citizens' health lifestyles; regularly releasing and updating guidelines that seek to create better health and wellbeing for all Australians.
Physical activity is one aspect that is crucial in maintaining good health. Here are Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior guidelines provided by the AU Government for adults and older adults.
For Adults Aged 18-64 Years Old
Physical Activity Guidelines
- Doing any physical activity is better than doing none. If you currently do no physical activity, start by doing some, and gradually build up to the recommended amount.
- Be active on most, preferably all, days every week.
- Accumulate 150 to 300 minutes (2 ½ to 5 hours) of moderate intensity physical activity or 75 to 150 minutes (1 ¼ to 2 ½ hours) of vigorous intensity physical activity, or an equivalent combination of both moderate and vigorous activities, each week.
- Do muscle strengthening activities on at least 2 days each week.
Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines
- Minimise the amount of time spent in prolonged sitting.
- Break up long periods of sitting as often as possible.
For Older Adults 65 years and Older
Physical Activity Recommendations
There are five physical activity recommendations for older Australians.
1. Older people should do some form of physical activity, no matter what their age, weight, health problems or abilities.
2. Older people should be active every day in as many ways as possible, doing a range of physical activities that incorporate fitness, strength, balance and flexibility.
3. Older people should accumulate at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most, preferably all, days.
4. Older people who have stopped physical activity, or who are starting a new physical activity, should start at a level that is easily manageable and gradually build up the recommended amount, type and frequency of activity.
5. Older people who continue to enjoy a lifetime of vigorous physical activity should carry on doing so in a manner suited to their capability into later life, provided recommended safety procedures and guidelines are adhered to.