The Benefits of Moving

We know that being physically active can give a huge boost to our health.

It can reduce the risk of developing a range of medical conditions, including cancer, dementia, strokes, heart disease and depression. Sport and physical activity can help prevent ill health, leading to improvements in strength, balance, movement, and help in maintaining a healthy body weight.

Movement can contribute towards improved quality of sleep, increased energy levels, healthy early years development, reduced unhealthy behaviours like smoking and effective pain management and improved quality of life as we get older.

Physical activity can contribute to an increased sense of enjoyment and happiness.

Volunteers and sports fans also have an increased sense of purpose and pride, while self-esteem and confidence are known to increase through participation or volunteering.

Sport and physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms.

As well as developing individuals, sport and physical activity can help build stronger communities by bringing people together.

Movement and physical activity is widely seen as a way for people of different backgrounds to interact and take part together. This includes volunteering and watching from the sidelines.

Physical activity can have a positive impact on a person’s employment opportunities and provide support to those who are not in employment, education or training.

There’s also clear evidence being active improves educational behaviour, as people who are more physically active feel happier and more confident.