Why Moving Your Body Matters More Than Ever: The Life-Saving Power of Exercise
We’ve all heard that “exercise is good for you”—but what if we told you that not moving enough is now one of the biggest health risks you can face? Physical inactivity is linked to an increasing number of serious health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and mental health disorders. In fact, low fitness levels have recently been identified as the strongest risk factor for all-cause mortality—even more so than smoking or high blood pressure.
The Silent Threat: Physical Inactivity
According to recent research, 4.8% of all cancers can now be attributed to physical inactivity. That means thousands of cases each year may be preventable through regular movement. This includes common cancers like breast, bowel, and uterine cancer, with a 2025 study showing that regular movement can lower the risk of breast cancer by up to 21%.
But it’s not just cancer—physical inactivity increases your risk of:
Cardiovascular disease
Type 2 diabetes
Depression and anxiety
Osteoporosis and falls
Reduced cognitive function and memory issues
Why Fitness Is a Vital Sign
Emerging evidence shows that your cardiorespiratory fitness—essentially, how well your heart and lungs support movement—is one of the strongest predictors of long-term health. In fact, studies have found that low fitness levels are a stronger predictor of early death than obesity, smoking, or high cholesterol.
This is huge.
It means that even small, sustainable changes to your physical activity levels can dramatically improve your chances of living longer and healthier.
You Don’t Need to Run Marathons
One of the biggest misconceptions is that exercise needs to be extreme to be effective. That’s not true. Even modest increases in physical activity can significantly improve your health outcomes.
What matters is:
Consistency: Moving regularly throughout the week
Variety: Combining cardio, strength, and flexibility
Enjoyment: Choosing movement you like, so you stick with it
At Virtual EP, we design individualised exercise programs that meet you where you are—whether you're managing a chronic condition, recovering from illness, or just wanting to feel better in your body.
It’s Never Too Late to Start
Whether you're in your 20s or your 70s, increasing your activity can lead to major improvements in:
Energy levels
Sleep quality
Mental health
Functional strength
Independence and mobility
And for those living with complex health issues or fatigue, a tailored and gradual program—delivered by an Accredited Exercise Physiologist—can help you move safely and confidently.
Movement Is Medicine
The evidence is clear: your body was made to move, and doing so regularly is one of the most powerful tools you have to improve your health, reduce your risk of serious disease, and live longer.
If you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to help.
At Virtual EP, we provide evidence-based, personalised exercise support via Telehealth, so you can take control of your health from the comfort of home.