Dimensions of Physical ActivityTo understand the recommendations of the National Physical Activity Guidelines (NPAG), it is essential to understand the dimensions of physical activity (FITD). These dimensions include:
Frequency
Refers to the number of times that a person engages in a particular activity within a given time frame (usually each week). The National Physical Activity Guidelines of Australia (NPAGs) suggest that people should be physically active on most days. In this instance, most days actually means a frequency of five or more. Duration
Refers to how long a person is engaged in PA. The NPAG's recommend adults accumulate a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate - intensity PA most days of the week (5 or more). |
Intensity
Is usually categorised as ‘light’, ‘moderate’ or ‘vigorous’ & is based on how much effort is required to engage in an activity or how much energy is expended while performing the activity. There are several ways measuring intensity:
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Type of Physical Activity
There are hundreds of different types of physical activities that people participate in for many reasons. The physical activity pyramid provides a summary of different types of activities required for optimal health.
There are hundreds of different types of physical activities that people participate in for many reasons. The physical activity pyramid provides a summary of different types of activities required for optimal health.