Active lifestyles and NCD Prevention

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory diseases, are now the leading causes of death worldwide. Sedentary lifestyles and other unhealthy habits, including a poor diet, increase the risk for NDCs. This is where physical activity (PA) makes a profound impact, and the reason why initiatives like CityMove, work to promote urban environments that support healthier and more active urban lifestyles.

Engaging in regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to prevent NCDs. Studies show that exercise helps to lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and maintain a healthy weight—all key factors in reducing the risk of heart disease and diabetes. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week for optimal health. However, the WHO recently stated that only 69% of adults and 20% of adolescents meet the recommended physical activity levels. CityMove seeks to research the impact of active and healthier urban environments on reducing the prevalence of NCDs by studying the impact of 13 physical activity actions and developing an evaluation framework for their transferability and scalability.  

An active lifestyle also has significant benefits for mental health. Regular physical activity can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and even help manage the symptoms of depression, all of which are often associated with NCDs. In the cities where CityMove operates, efforts are underway to create public spaces, policies and programs to help make it easier for people to enjoy the benefits of physical activity.

Exercise also enhances immune function and helps the body resist infections and inflammation. People who are physically active often have stronger immune responses, which protects them from chronic diseases and improves their overall quality of life. CityMove’s initiatives in public spaces and health centres aim to make exercise accessible to all, especially for the least active groups.

CityMove is also implementing the WHO’s Global Action Plan on Physical Activity (GAPPA) in its pilot cities. This approach includes not only creating active spaces and places, but also changing the social norms and attitudes, developing programmes and opportunities and strengthening policies and governance and information systems.

Here are five simple tips to increase your levels of physical activity: 

1. Walk or Cycle Everyday: Try to reach your everyday destinations by walking and cycling or by combining walking and public transportation. Using public transport often involves more walking. You can also walk and cycle for short trips. 
2. take advantage of the public spaces and public PA programs: Try running nearby errands on foot or by bike, or take advantage of accessible public spaces and city programmes—many urban areas now offer organised walks or activity routes. These options can add enjoyable movement to your day, promoting both health and sustainability.

3. Take the Stairs: Opt for stairs over lifts or escalators when you can. This quick burst of exercise can help you build strength and add activity to your routine.

4. Schedule Short Activity Breaks: Every hour, take a few minutes to stand up, stretch, or walk around. Regular breaks are key to reducing sedentary time, especially for those who work at a desk. Every move counts! Being active has significant health benefits for hearts, bodies and minds, whether you’re walking, wheeling or cycling, dancing, doing sport or playing with your kids.

5. Incorporate Exercise into Social Time: Suggest going for a walk or joining a local class with friends. Being active together can make exercise more enjoyable and easier to sustain.

In summary, adopting an active lifestyle not only helps reduce the risk of NCDs but also improves mental health, strengthens immunity, and promotes our overall well-being. 

Through initiatives like CityMove, more people in cities are discovering the benefits of movement and how physical activity can be an essential part of a healthy, fulfilling life. Stay tuned as CityMove continues its mission to make physical activity a natural part of city life! We will be sharing updates on how cities are transforming spaces to encourage active lifestyles and improve public health. Follow along to learn more about these initiatives and the results from each of our partner cities as we work to create healthier, more active communities around the world.