This Wednesday, March 19 is National Ride2School Day and Cancer Council Queensland is encouraging families to celebrate the occasion by pledging to incorporate more physical activity into the school week.In February, the Federal Department of Health updated Australia’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Guidelines, recommending kids and teens exercise for at least 60 minutes a day to reduce their risk of chronic disease, including some cancers.
Cancer Council Queensland spokesperson Katie Clift said National Ride2School Day was an important occasion to remember the ways active travel can be worked into the school day to improve the long term health of children.
“We know that 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity is of great benefit to the long term health of children – but finding ways to incorporate that activity can be a challenge,” Ms Clift said.
“Seize opportunities to help your kids move more, such as riding, walking or scooting to school this National Ride2School Day.
“Engaging in physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of a range of chronic diseases, including some cancers.
“Queensland has the highest rate of adult obesity in Australia – 10 per cent higher than the national rate*. Helping our children create healthy, active lifestyles from a young age is imperative in improving their health for the long term.
“It’s important to limit sedentary activities – even if children are very physically active, they may experience negative health effects from sitting for long periods each day.”
Cancer Council Queensland recommends children start slowly if they have not been physically active for some time, and stay Sun Smart when participating in outdoor activities.
At least one-third of all cancers are preventable through lifestyle adjustments including eating a healthy diet, being physically active, reducing alcohol intake and maintaining a healthy weight.
More information about cancer Council Queensland and being physically active is available via Cancer Council helpline 13 11 20 or cancerqld.org.au.
Measured obesity in Queensland, 2011-12.
For interview opportunities, please contact:
Katie Clift, Executive Manager, Media and Spokesperson, Cancer Council Queensland
P. (07) 3634 5372 M. 0409 001 171
For more information, please contact:
Kim Ryan, Senior Media Advisor, Cancer Council Queensland