‘Physical fitness is not only one of the most important aspects to a healthy body; it is the basis for dynamic and creative intellectual activity’.

John F. Kennedy

Get up and move: be active, it’s good for you!

In August 2014, the UKZN medical aid in partnership with Discovery Health conducted wellness days throughout the University. The report indicates that only 845 employees attended the wellness days, and 66% of those who attended are at risk as they only exercise for less than 150 minutes per week. The report further states that 88% of employees are not meeting the recommended daily intake of five servings of vegetables and fruits and this poor eating habit can lead to chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and certain cancers.

Physical wellness

Physical wellness involves aspects of life that are necessary to keep in top condition. Optimal physical wellness is developed through a combination of beneficial physical activity/exercise and healthy eating habits. This can be achieved through building muscular strength and endurance, cardiovascular strength and flexibility.

Physical wellness is also concerned with developing personal responsibility for own health care, such as caring for minor illnesses and knowing when professional medical attention is needed. Developing physical wellness will empower you to be able to monitor your vital signs and understand your body's warning signs.

Benefits of physical activity

Physical activity is any body movement as part of work or play that gets your body in motion and enhances physical fitness, overall health and wellness. It enhances a positive mood and promotes creative thinking. As an Institution of Higher Education that promotes research and a high performance culture, it is important to have our people think creatively.

Physical exercise has a lot of benefits such as weight loss, stronger heart and lungs, increased bone density, reduced stress, reduced risk of heart disease and some types of cancer, temporary relief from depression and anxiety, greater 

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