Role of physical activity in health promotion and (individual) sustainable development

SUMMARY

Regular physical activity may be a tool in the prevention of sedentary behaviour, overweight, obesity, and obesity-related diseases and plays a fundamental role in health promotion. Moreover, it helps to educate, to develop tolerance and respect for others, to increase interindividual and international exchange, plays a role in social integration, and contributes to an increase in individual sustainable development (ISD). ISD is an extension of the concept of the sustainable development (SD). Its aim is to promote a long, healthy and autonomous life, in conformity with the physical and social environment and economic needs. ISD implies individual participation in the decision-making process, self-determination and freedom and/or responsibility in making individual choices.

Keywords:

• Sustainable development
• physical activity
• health promotion