Cardiovascular health benefits of physical activity: Time to focus on strengths

Abstract

Summary The health benefits of regular physical activity and/or exercise participation are clear. There is overwhelming evidence from large population-based and randomized controlled trials demonstrating the positive role that routine physical activity/exercise plays in the primary and secondary prevention of at least 25 chronic medical conditions and premature mortality. In this article, we discuss how diseases of the cardiovascular system appear to be particularly affected by physical activity and exercise levels. We also discuss the relatively poor uptake of various national and international guidelines that adopt threshold- and deficits-based messaging highlighting the need to meet specific physical activity targets and the perils of engaging in too little physical activity or exercise. We argue that threshold- and deficits-based messaging misses a great opportunity for health and wellness change. We also emphasize how this form of messaging may actually increase the barriers for those seeking to become healthier through routine physical activity. We highlight the importance of taking a strengths-based approach to health and wellness that builds upon the innate strengths of individuals, families, and communities. We argue that a strengths-based approach provides a greater opportunity for enhancing health and wellness that is more inclusive for everyone.