Research: Physical health and Active Lifestyles

This British Medical Journal (BMJ) 2007 research examines factors in early life (up to age 5 years) that are associated with objectively measured physical activity in 11-12 year olds. They found Parents’ physical activity during pregnancy and early in the child’s life showed a modest association with physical activity of the child at age 11-12 years, suggesting that active parents tend to raise active children. 

This easy read blog lists 9 health benefits of walking on a beach. Physical activity facts listed include that running and walking in sand requires a greater effort than walking on a hard surface. These statistics aren't referenced but it makes interesting reading.

This NHS webpage explains that we should be able to get our daily Vitamin D requirements by spending some time outdoors between March and September. Your body can't make vitamin D if you're sitting indoors by a sunny window because ultraviolet B (UVB) rays (the ones your body needs to make vitamin D) can't get through the glass. We need vitamin D to help the body absorb calcium and phosphate from our diet. These minerals are important for healthy bones, teeth and muscles.