1.8 Billion Adults Not Getting Enough Physical Activity, Says WHO - What It Means

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised concern over the increasing risk of people encountering serious health ailments such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

The UN agency working to promote health said, "1.8 billion adults are not getting enough physical activity. The result is an increased risk of serious health conditions including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Levels of inactivity are projected to rise to 35% by 2030."

The Geneva headquartered body further mentioned that "women are less likely to be active than men". Meanwhile, WHO also recommended that "adults have 150 minutes of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity, or equivalent, per week."

Moderate-intensity aerobic workout

Aerobic (or “cardio”) activity uplifts your heart rate and benefits your heart by improving cardiorespiratory fitness. When performed at moderate intensity, your heart beats faster and people breathe harder than usual, however, you’ll still be able to talk.

Types of moderate-intensity workout

brisk walking (at least 2.5 miles per hour)

water aerobics

dancing (ballroom or social)

gardening

Tennis (doubles)

Biking slower than 10 miles per hour

Vigorous-intensity physical activity

Vigorous intensity activities will push your body a little further. They will require a higher amount of effort. You’ll probably get warm and begin to sweat. You won’t be able to talk much without getting out of breath.

Variants of vigorous-intensity aerobic activities

hiking uphill or with a heavy backpack

running

swimming laps

vigorous aerobic dancing

heavy yardwork such as continuous digging or hoeing

tennis (singles)

cycling 10 miles per hour or faster

jumping rope