Physical activity is defined as any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles, with the consequent energy expenditure. Physical activity refers to all movement, including during leisure time, to move to and from certain places, or as part of a person's work.

Regular physical activity has been shown to help prevent and control non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and various types of cancer. It also helps prevent hypertension, maintain a healthy body weight and can improve mental health, quality of life and well-being.

Tips for maintaining healthy physical activity

Regular physical activity provides well-being while helping to prevent diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, overweight and obesity, heart attacks, dementia and some types of cancer.

Doing physical activity to have good health and prevent diseases is easy!

Visit the health channel website and you will find tools and ideas on how to make physical activity a habit that will make you feel good:  https://canalsalut.gencat.cat/ca/vida-saludable/activitat-fisica/

Watch the healthy routes on the health channel: https://canalsalut.gencat.cat/ca/vida-saludable/activitat-fisica/rutes-saludables/

Tips for enjoying healthy routes with health and safety:

"Walking is the first thing we learn and the last thing we want to stop doing."

• Wear comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear. 
• Warm up and stretch before and after walking to avoid injury. 
• Bring water and drink small sips regularly. 
• While walking, you should go at a comfortable speed that allows you to talk without difficulty. If you can't, slow down. 
• Avoid doing intense activities after meals as they can interfere with proper digestion. 
• Avoid extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. 
• Avoid the hours of maximum sunlight: walk in the shade, wear a hat and sunglasses, and wear sunscreen. 
• Remember to wear a watch during the walk. 
• A pedometer can be useful for measuring your steps and distance day by day and seeing your progress. 
• You must respect road safety regulations. 
• Don't forget to respect the environment and the natural environment. 
• In case of an accident, call 112, the emergency number. Stay calm. The 112 number is free, operates 24 hours a day and can be called from a landline or mobile if there is coverage.