The Consequences of a Sedentary Lifestyle & Obesity & Performance in Physical Activity/Sport | Physical Education for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

The Impacts of a Sedentary Lifestyle

• Individuals who engage in minimal or no physical activity are considered to lead a sedentary lifestyle.
  • A sedentary person is characterized by a lack of physical activity.
  • Lifestyle refers to an individual’s daily routines and typical behaviors.
  • For example, someone who spends their days moving between working at a desk, lounging on a couch, and resting in bed exemplifies a sedentary lifestyle.
• It can be challenging, especially for adults, to find opportunities to participate in physical activities or sports.
  • According to a Sports England report for 2021/22, approximately 11.9 million adults in England were classified as inactive, engaging in less than 30 minutes of moderate physical activity per week.
• Living a sedentary lifestyle increases the likelihood of various physical and mental health problems.
• Some of the associated risks include:
  • Weight gain or obesity
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Type II diabetes
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Low self-esteem
  • Fatigue or lack of energy

Obesity & Performance in Physical Activity/Sport

Understanding Obesity

• Obesity is a medical condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat.
• It is identified by a body mass index (BMI) exceeding 30 or being more than 20% above the ideal weight-to-height ratio.
• Fat storage under the skin and around organs is normal for energy reserves, insulation, and organ protection.
• However, when fat accumulates excessively, as seen in obesity, it can significantly harm overall health.

Global Obesity Statistics

• According to the World Health Organization,in 2022, approximately 16% of the global population was obese, totaling around 890 million adults and 160 million children and adolescents.

Impact on Physical Activity and Sports

• Obesity adversely affects an individual’s capacity to engage in physical activities and sports.
  • For example, obesity reduces endurance, strength, and speed, while also limiting flexibility and agility.
• This is primarily due to the extra body mass placing strain on bones and requiring greater effort to move the increased weight.
• Individuals with obesity often exhibit lower cardiovascular endurance, making intense or extended physical activities difficult.

Health Risks Associated with Obesity

People with obesity face a higher likelihood of various health issues compared to those with a healthy body mass. 
Some examples include:

• Increased Cancer Risk: Certain cancers, such as colon cancer, are more prevalent due to poor dietary habits, particularly low-fiber diets lacking sufficient fruits and vegetables.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Excessive consumption of sugars and carbohydrates heightens the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. If untreated, it can cause damage to blood vessels, kidneys, eyes, gums, feet, and nerves.
• High Cholesterol: Consuming excessive fatty foods can lead to elevated cholesterol levels, causing blockages in blood vessels, particularly those near the heart.
• Heart Disease: These blockages increase the risk of heart disease or heart attacks.

Obesity and Heart Attack Diagram

Mental and Social Health Impacts

Examples include:

• Mental Health Challenges: Obesity can contribute to depression and reduced self-esteem, often linked to body image concerns and fear of judgment from others.
• Social Difficulties: Individuals with obesity may find it challenging to socialize or form new relationships.
• Mobility and Confidence Issues: A lack of confidence and mobility problems may prevent people with obesity from leaving their homes.