Shun technology to get fit says Hillary Commission

By KATHERINE HOBY

Lazy Kiwis need more "huff and puff" in their lives, and should shun effort-saving technology and labour by hand, the Hillary Commission says.

Cars, dishwashers, TV remotes and lifts have all seen us moving less, getting fatter and sicker, the commission said, after publishing new guidelines urging Kiwis to get fit.

In the commission's booklet, it suggests working up a sweat in the garden, doing things around the home by hand instead of using Machines, taking the stairs, washing the car by hand, throwing a ball, and getting off the bus or train early to walk home, as simple ways of increasing activity.

Although any movement was better than none, 30 minutes a day in "bite-sized chunks [of] moderate-intensity" would improve blood pressure and body weight.

Brisk walking was a good example, the commission said.

Benefits included more energy, better health, more confidence, happiness, relaxation and sleep, it said.

The new fitness guidelines were developed by the Hillary Commission, Health Ministry and Fitness New Zealand in an effort to make the one in three New Zealanders still not taking enough exercise more active.

Athletics coach John Davies has been coordinating marathons, and races such as the Corporate Challenge for years.

He has noticed a marked increase in the numbers of women participating in such events.

Mr Davies said this was probably partly due to the public focus on women's health issues.

"Women seem to be catching on to the need to keep themselves fit and healthy better than men," he said.

"The number of women in our events has gone up and up, whereas the number of men has remained static, or decreased."

He believed role models for women were more prominent and positive than those for men.

"It is the women's sports teams out there doing the business right now," he said. "The women's cricket, rugby, and league teams are right on top of things. And one cannot help but be inspired by that."

* The Sussan Women's Classic will be run along an 8km route from Newmarket to Mission Bay next Sunday.

Entry costs $15 and is open to women walkers and runners of all ages. Entry forms from Sussan stores or on 0508-000-999..

- ADDITIONAL REPORTING: NZPA

Home truths about exercise:


* Physical activity or movement is good for everyone.

* Any movement is better than none.

* It is easy to be more active and it is never too late to start.

* Movement is an opportunity, not an inconvenience.

* Be active every day in as many ways as possible.

* Put together at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity on most days.

* Add some vigorous exercise for extra health and fitness.

(Source: Hillary Commission.)