Physical Activity and Health Programme

“If physical activity were a drug, we would refer to it as a miracle cure, due to the great many illnesses it can prevent and help treat.” UK Chief Medical Officers, 2019*

Whatever our age or health status, there is compelling evidence* that being physically active can help us lead happier, healthier lives.

Several high-level systematic reviews have identified risk reductions of 25-50% or more in major chronic diseases for individuals who achieve the physical activity levels set by the UK Chief Medical Officers’ guidelines**. More than that, physical activity can be one of the most important tools in the healthcare professional’s toolkit for condition management. It can lead to improved clinical outcomes in over 30 different chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, and be as effective as medication in many instances: hypertension, stroke, and mild-to-moderate depression, to name just a few.

This elearning course prepares GPs, nurses and other healthcare professionals to champion the benefits of physical activity with their patients and, in doing so, help prevent and/or manage a range of common physical and mental health conditions. The course will familiarise the learner with the UK Chief Medical Officers’ physical activity guidelines, the underpinning evidence base and how to incorporate it into their daily clinical care.