CHAPTER 11: Promotion of Physical Activity for Women’s Health

Introduction An active lifestyle confers significant health benefits. National guidelines for adults emphasize at least 150 minutes per week of moderate- intensity exercise with integrated strength training. 41% of U.S. women report a sedentary lifestyle.

Physical Activity and Obesity Physical activity can help combat obesity epidemic when combined with dietary changes. Physical activity can assist with weight loss maintenance.

Physical Activity for Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) – Leading cause of death among women – Risk reductions in CVD attributed to physical activity range from 28% to 58%. Diabetes – Regular physical activity substantially reduces women’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Physical Activity for Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Hypertension – Regular physical activity leads to better blood pressure control. Breast Cancer – Epidemiological studies have shown an inverse relationship between physical activity and breast cancer risk.

Physical Activity for Smoking Cessation Vigorous-intensity exercise can facilitate smoking cessation with women when combined with a cognitive-behavioral smoking cessation program.

Physical Activity for Mental Health Regular, moderate-intensity physical activity alleviates symptoms of depression and anxiety and improves mood across the lifespan. Physical activity may enhance positive affect and reduce negative affect. Physical activity can reduce insomnia and other sleep disorders.

Internet Technologies and Other Innovative Intervention Strategies Cost and resource savings Internet Cell phone applications Text messaging Video games (e.g., Wii Fit)

Physical Activity Promotion in Women from Underserved Populations Women from low-income and/or racial/ethnic minority groups report high rates of inactivity and suffer disproportionately from related chronic diseases. Interventions must be tailored to meet specific needs. Cultural sensitivity is a critical component.

Discussion and Conclusion An active lifestyle is fundamental to women’s health. Research suggests that perhaps more emphasis should be placed on strength training. Emerging literature on technology-based strategies for promoting physical activity in women appears promising.