Move and shake your way to a healthier lifestyle
Health Minister Zane DeSilva this morning launched a new campaign aimed at getting people to move and shake their way to a healthier lifestyle.The ‘Move More Bermuda’ campaign aims to encourage children and adults to include more physical activity in their lifestyles.Mr DeSilva said only 29 percent of Bermudian adults reported doing vigorous physical activity three times a week; while 29 percent of adolescents on the Island reported doing brisk physical activity five times a week.“This is not good enough,” he said, while speaking at the launch ceremony at Victor Scott Primary School, in Pembroke.“We want to increase the proportion of adults and children who are physically active, and there are a variety of ways we can achieve this.“Engaging is physical activity as a family can be a fun way to get everyone moving. Studies have shown that those who feel supported by friends and families to become more active or are surrounded by others interested in physical activity are more likely to participate.”He said everyone needed to be engaged in physical activity each day; with children doing 60 minutes of exercise and adults doing at least 30.Such activity has “numerous and undeniable” benefits; and along with healthy eating, can prevent a range of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and stroke, said Mr DeSilva.In addition to today’s launch, the Department of Health will have a host of activities - from Zumba, line dancing, tai chi, pilates and TRX (suspension training)- on hand at this week’s Harbour Night’s celebration.“The public is invited to join us for a night of fun and activities that will be sure to get you moving,” he added.