DOES PHYSICAL-ACTIVITY ENHANCE HEALTH

This paper provides the justification of physical activity promotion f or health by critically reviewing the recent US Surgeon General's Repo rt. Evidence is summarized of the effects of physical activity on phys iological responses, overall mortality, a number of diseases and disab ilities, overall functional capacity, and mental health and quality of life. Cumulating evidence suggests that the effects be applicable to both genders and to a wide age range. The adverse effects of physical activity on health are shown to be small and mostly preventable. It is emphasized that substantial health effects can be gained by moderate daily physical activity which does not require high skill level nor sp ecialized equipment or facilities. It is concluded that the health pot ential of physical activity is substantial due to the high prevalence of inactive lifestyle in the populations, the great number of health c onditions being affected by physical activity, and the feasibility and safety of physical activity as a health measure. (C) 1998 Elsevier Sc ience Ireland Ltd.