Essay About Physical Activity

Physical activity is defined as bodily movement that is produced by the skeletal muscles that results in energy expenditure.” (Caspersen C. J., et al. 1985). It is said to be necessary to prevent or reduce risks of many diseases and improve the physical and mental health of an individual. It helps to keep one in shape in order to satisfactorily perform work and home chores and enjoy different leisure activities. Other benefits of engaging in physical activity are having a better quality of life, reduced stress, improved sleep and stronger relationships and social connectedness.

With the rise of obesity in the present generation of youth, regular physical activity such as walking must be part of their daily routine. Recent survey findings show

With this alarming survey results it is, therefore, very important to increase the level of physical activity of the Filipinos and identify the different attributes which will motivate people to engage in physical activity.

Environment plays a role in promoting physical activity, therefore one must consider how people interact with their environment. Neighborhood design must take into consideration the provision of facilities that could sustain physical activity programs and the provision of safe road network, pedestrian lanes and bicycle lanes to encourage more people to engage in walking, jogging or cycling.

A lot of researches and studies regarding the association of neighborhood design with physical activity have been and are being made in different countries in the world such as in the United States, Canada, Australia, China, European and South American countries. But in the Philippines, not much studies regarding the association of the built environment and physical activity are being