Abstract

Ischaemic heart disease (IHDI) is the primary cause of death in South Africa in all recial groups except blacks. The latest figures suggest a 22 decrease in males and 29 in females. The more important modifiable risk factors which have a positive relationship with an increased likelihood of having IHD are hyperlipidemia, hypertension, hyperglycemia, cigarette smoking, obesity, physical inactivity and psychosocial influences. The degree to which the benefits of physical activity accrue to the individual is directly related to the degree to which the individual complies with the recommended levels of physical activity. These benefits include: an increrased exercise tolerance; an improved cardiovascular response to a given submaximal intensity; a positive affect on lipid and carbohydrate metabolism; an increase in muscle strength and endurance; an associated improvement in psychologic status; an improved self-confidence, self-esteem and a greater sense of independence; little increased likelihoof of reinfarction. There is little hard evidence about whether one is healthy because one exercises or whether one exercises because one is healthy. The prime motivating factor may not be health per se but rather enjoyment of participation. Verf.-Referat