Obesity surgery
Obesity surgery is the last resort, when all other attempts at weight loss have failed and the person's health is at risk. Current techniques include gastric banding, gastric stapling and bowel bypass. Current estimates suggest that around 10 per ... [... more]
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Sporting performance and food
Good nutrition can enhance sporting performance. Carbohydrates should form the basis of a sports person's diet. A high protein diet is not generally needed or recommended, since it can hinder performance, impair kidney function and compromise ... [... more]
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Sport and children
Evidence suggests that physically active children are more likely to mature into physically active adults. However, only six out of 10 Australian children aged between five and 14 years participate in sport outside of school. Only six out of 10 ... [... more]
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Walking for fun and fitness - getting started
Walking is an excellent exercise for improving or maintaining your overall health, and walking with others can turn about of exercise into an enjoyable social occasion. There are numerous walking clubs throughout Victoria, both in metropolitan ... [... more]
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Martial arts - preventing injury
The risk of injury from martial arts is low compared to other contact sports. Most injuries are to the limbs and are usually mild to moderate, for example bruises or cuts. The many different forms of martial arts include karate, kung fu, ju ... [... more]
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Fitness centres - how to choose one
Before you join a gym or choose a fitness or leisure centre, you should do some homework. You need to make sure the staff are qualified, assess the amount of support and supervision and the availability of equipment. You also need to look into ... [... more]
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Parkinson's disease and exercise
Regular exercise can improve some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as tremor, rigidity, slowness and impaired movement. Consult with your doctor, physiotherapist or health care professional when devising an exercise ... [... more]
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Walking school bus
A Walking School Bus is a school bus powered not by an engine but by legs. Children don't sit inside this bus - they walk in a group to school, with an adult 'driver' in the front and an adult 'conductor' at the rear. The walkers are the bus. The ... [... more]
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Postnatal exercise - sample workout
Exercise helps you return to your pre-pregnancy shape and gives you increased energy to cope with the demands of motherhood. You can begin exercises to tone your pelvic floor and abdominal muscles as soon as you feel ready. Regular exercise after ... [... more]
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Sports injuries
Sports injuries are caused by overuse, direct impact, or the application of force that is greater than the body part can structurally withstand. Common injuries include bruises, sprains, strains, joint injuries and nose bleeds. Sports injuries ... [... more]
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Resistance training - beginners
Resistance training increases muscle strength by pitting muscles against a weight, such as a dumbbell, barbell or other type of resistance. A rubberised band can even be used. Understanding the principles of muscle contraction can help you reach ... [... more]
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Gardening safety
Gardening is a relaxing and enjoyable form of exercise, but it can pose health risks. If you minimise the risks, you can enjoy the benefits of your garden in good health - without the need for medical support! Gardening is a relaxing and ... [... more]
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