PREVENTING CHRONIC DISEASES WITH EXERCISE.
Exercise can help prevent chronic health conditions.
The Role of Exercise in Preventing Chronic Disease
Chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and respiratory conditions are among the leading causes of illness and death in Australia. But here’s the good news, many of these conditions are largely preventable. One of the most effective tools we have to prevent chronic disease is regular physical activity.
At JY Exercise Physiology, I specialise in helping people of all ages and fitness levels incorporate safe, evidence-based movement into their lives. Whether you’re looking to improve your heart health, reduce your diabetes risk, or stay mobile and strong, exercise is a powerful prescription for better health.
What is Chronic Disease ?
Chronic diseases are long-term health conditions that often develop gradually and persist over time. They include:
Cardiovascular disease (heart disease, stroke)
Type 2 diabetes
Chronic respiratory diseases (COPD, asthma)
Some cancers (colon, breast)
Osteoarthritis and osteoporosis
Mental health conditions like anxiety and depression
These conditions often share common risk factors such as physical inactivity, poor diet, smoking, excessive alcohol use, and obesity.
How Exercise Helps Prevent Chronic Disease
Regular physical activity improves nearly every system in the body. Here’s how exercise protects you against chronic illness:
1. Reduces Risk of Heart Disease
Exercise strengthens the heart, lowers blood pressure, improves cholesterol levels, and promotes healthy blood flow. Just 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk.
2. Manages Blood Sugar Levels
Aerobic and resistance training improve insulin sensitivity and help manage or prevent type 2 diabetes.
3. Supports Healthy Weight
Physical activity burns energy and helps build muscle mass, both of which are essential for maintaining a healthy body composition.
4. Strengthens Bones and Joints
Weight-bearing and resistance exercises help prevent osteoporosis and reduce the progression of osteoarthritis by supporting joint function.
5. Boosts Lung Function
Cardiovascular exercise improves respiratory efficiency and can slow the decline of lung capacity in people with chronic lung conditions.
6. Enhances Mental Health
Exercise increases feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress.
7. Reduces Inflammation
Chronic inflammation contributes to many diseases. Regular movement helps reduce systemic inflammation throughout the body.
8. Lowers Cancer Risk
Research shows that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of certain cancers, including colon, breast, and endometrial cancers.
How Much Exercise Do You Need?
The Australian Physical Activity Guidelines recommend:
150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week (brisk walking, cycling)
2-3 sessions of resistance training activities (resistance training, Pilates, bodyweight exercises)
Even small increases in physical activity can lead to big health benefits. If you’re currently inactive, start with 10–15 minutes per day and build gradually.
Starting Safely with Professional Guidance
If you’re living with a chronic condition, are at high risk, or haven’t exercised in a long time, working with an Accredited Exercise Physiologist can help. At JY Exercise Physiology, I can:
Tailor programs to your health history and goals
Monitor your progress and safety
Provide motivation and accountability
Work alongside your GP or healthcare team
Our goal is to help you move better, feel better, and stay healthy for life.
Take Control of Your Health
Prevention is powerful. With the right approach, exercise can be medicine, helping you avoid chronic disease and enjoy a longer, healthier life.
Contact me today to start your journey.
Located in Upper Mount Gravatt and speak with an Accredited Exercise Physiologist now to discuss how I can facilitate your needs.
Feel free to explore our other blogs to learn more and gain additional insights.
Call +61 421 967 711
