A United States-based researcher in the department of Kinesiology and Integrative physiology, Michigan Technological University, USA, Oluwatosin Oyeniran has urged the Nigerian government to institute policies that will promote awareness on health benefits of physical activities and outdoor exercise.
In his paper entitled, “Exercise as a Novel form of Medicine”, Oyeniran noted that physical activity and exercise was one of the most effective forms of medicine in promoting good health, preventing diseases such as cardiovascular problems, Obesity and diabetes and bolstering the immune function of the people.
Oyeniran explained that physical activity does not have to be intensed or time-consuming to be beneficial, noting that even moderate activities like brisk walking for 30 minutes a day, five days a week, can significantly improve health outcomes.
He regretted that despite the numerous benefits of physical activity and exercise, a greater number of Nigerians are not getting enough of it as most people engage in a sedentary lifestyle, with many adults spending long hours sitting at work or engaging in screen-based activities especially among city dwellers.
He said Nigeria has an alarming rate of 32.68% burden of physical inactivity prominently in the urban area, noting that such lifestyle had taken a toll on public health.
He, therefore, advocated for a change in the trend, especially in the present post-COVID era where a more active lifestyle is embraced for the benefit of the bodies, minds, and communities.
His words, “For Nigerians specifically, there’s a need for policies that promote awareness on the health benefits of physical activity and outdoor exercise. Studies have shown that active individuals have better heart rate recovery and blood pressure regulation after exercise compared to inactive individuals.
“Only 6.45% of Nigerian adults report engaging in outdoor leisure-time physical exercise at least once a week.
“Physical activity and exercise is one of the most effective forms of medicine to promote good health, prevent disease, and bolster immune function of Nigerians and Africans at large.
“Through this campaign, I hope to consolidate the gains already recorded by the Exercise is Medicine (EIM) Nigeria National Center which is currently hosted at the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF).”
Oyeniran, who is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and other physiological Associations said his primary research interest centers on understanding the impact of physical activity and exercise on human health and general wellbeing, especially among young and older adults in Nigeria and the United States, using techniques such as lower body negative pressure, exercise, and simulated hemorrhage.
Speaking on how more Nigerians can be encouraged to engage in physical activity, Oyeniran suggested the need to raise awareness and educate more people about the health benefits of exercise and the risks of a sedentary lifestyle.
He said the government can also make it more accessible by creating more public spaces for physical activity, such as parks, walking trails, community sports facilities and the promotion of workplace wellness and community initiatives via organizing group activities like community walks or sports leagues to make exercise more social and enjoyable.
“Most importantly, he emphasized the need to start young by promoting physical education in schools and encouraging children to participate in sports and outdoor activities.
“Through this campaign, I hope to consolidate the gains already recorded by the Exercise is Medicine (EIM) Nigeria National Center which is currently hosted at the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF),” he stated.
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