Exercise during Veterans’ Health Week

Veterans of all ages are encouraged to improve their health and wellbeing by increasing their levels of physical activity during Veterans’ Health Week.

The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Senator the Hon. Michael Ronaldson, says Veterans’ Health Week, 14 to 20 October, is a great time to start making plans to incorporate a little more exercise into your day, and in turn, improve your health and wellbeing.

“Why wait until the new year to make a health resolution, get started now and make the commitment to become more active.  Even a small step, like taking your children or grandchildren for a walk with the family pet, can make a big difference,” Minister Ronaldson says.

According to the Australian Government Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults, all it takes is 30 minutes of moderate intensity activity on most days to enhance your health and help prevent conditions such as heart disease and type II diabetes, build and maintain healthy bones and muscles and promote psychological wellbeing.

This year, the theme of Veterans’ Health Week is Physical Activity – Fitness, Strength, Flexibility and Balance, with activities designed to encourage the veteran community to:

• enjoy fitness and keep physically healthy through exercise and good nutrition;
• find the mental strength to participate in activities that will help prevent illness and injury;
• develop flexibility in daily routines, allowing the incorporation of more physical activity; and
• maintain the right balance of exercise, nutrition and rest.

Veteran and community groups around the country will partner with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs to host a range of events including activities such as surfing and gardening lessons, group challenges, family fishing and fun days, bowls competitions and a health and wellbeing expo.

“I encourage members of the veteran and defence communities to find out what is going on in their local area and take part.  Looking after yourself physically and mentally are two of the most important things you can do to improve and maintain your overall health and wellbeing, ensuring you stay in the best shape possible.

“While strenuous physical activities are not suitable for all, there are a wide variety of sports and hobbies suited to all different ability levels and even the smallest amount of exercise can help improve your health,” Minister Ronaldson says.

Find out more about Veterans’ Health Week activities.