C.6 Prescription of Exercise for Health

Overview

• Exercise prescription: Specific plan of fitness activities designed by specialists for clients or patients.

C.6.1 Physical Activity Guidelines for Health Promotion

• WHO Recommendations
  • Guidelines set by WHO for minimal physical activity to promote health.
  • Age Groups:
    • 5-17 Years
      • 60 minutes/day of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic activity.
      • Activities should strengthen muscle and bone, at least 3 times/week.
    • 18-65 Years
      • 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes/week of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity.
      • Muscle strengthening on 2+ days/week.
    • Over 65 Years
      • Same as 18-65 years, plus activities enhancing balance on 3+ days/week if poor mobility.
  • Aerobic activity in bouts of at least 10 minutes.
  • Additional health benefits with more than 60 minutes of activity.
  • If health conditions limit activity, be as active as abilities allow.

C.6.2 Exercise in Hypokinetic Disease

• Definition: Disease linked to inactivity (e.g., sedentary lifestyle).
• Aims of Exercise:
  • Maximize limited functional capacities.
  • Alleviate symptoms (e.g., exercise to reduce hypertension).
  • Decrease need for medication (e.g., exercise lowering Type 2 diabetes risk).
  • Reduce risk of disease recurrence (secondary prevention).
  • Address social problems and psychological distress through social exercise.

C.6.3 Barriers to Physical Activity

• Common Barriers:
  • Uncontrolled disease state (e.g., unstable angina, poorly controlled diabetes).
  • Exercise Hazards (e.g., cycling and swimming accidents).
  • Musculoskeletal Injuries (e.g., strains, sprains, fractures).
  • Triggering Health Issues (e.g., heart attacks, respiratory infections).
  • Motivational Barriers: Poor motivation, self-concept, or social interactions at the gym can hinder activity.