Date Published: 20 March 2007

British Heart Foundation backs new study on the burdens of physical inactivity

Research funded by the British Heart Foundation (BHF), published today in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, has revealed that physically inactive lifestyles cost the UK health service 1 billion a year.

Steve Shaffelburg, BHF Policy Manager, said:

“This research is yet more evidence showing how important physical activity is for our overall health, and especially for our heart health. We will be launching a national campaign this April encouraging people to take more exercise and demanding the Government tackles inactivity now as a high priority issue.

_ All adults should aim to take 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on five days a week at least. It can be enjoyable, cheap and easy to fit into everyday life. Brisk walking, swimming and gardening are great examples.

_ You are never too old to start being active, but people who are not used to physical activity and not sure of what activity is right for them should discuss it with their GP.

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