Types of Health
Physical Education: AQA GCSE, topic 8.1.2
Regular Exercise Benefits Physical Health and Well-Being
Physical health is the first part of a person's overall health and well-being. Good physical health means body systems are working well and the individual is free from injury or illness. This has the following benefits:
Improves heart function
- E.g. lower resting heart rate.
Prevents obesity
- Eating well (fewer calories eaten each day) and exercising (more calories burned) can help prevent obesity.
High efficiency of body systems
- E.g. cardiovascular system.
Reduces the effect of some illnesses
- E.g. type 2 diabetes.
Regular Exercise Benefits Mental Health and Well-Being
The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines mental health as ‘a state of well-being in which every individual realises his or her own potential’. Regular exercise can help improve an individual's mental health.
Reduces stress and tension levels
Releases feel-good hormones (e.g. serotonin)
Increases productivity
- Regular exercise lets a person control their emotions. This means that they can work more productively.
Regular Exercise Benefits Social Health and Well-Being
Social health and well-being are defined as basic human needs being met (food, shelter and clothing). Basic human needs usually extend to include friendships, support and minimising stress. Regular exercise can benefit social health by providing:
Opportunities to socialise
- Exercise can give opportunities to socialise (make friends and meet new people).
Life skills
- Exercise encourages life skills such as teamwork, communication and cooperation.
- Helps you to learn how to look after your own body.
Test yourself on Types of Health
What do we mean when we say someone is in good physical health?
Which of the following is not a benefit associated with good physical health?
Benefits of regular exercise on mental health
Which of the following is a feel-good hormone?