SIMON Corbell says the benefits of public transport and physical activity in the fight against obesity were highlighted at a Heart Foundation (ACT) public seminar on active living.

“While the ACT is the healthiest place in Australia in terms of life expectancy, with lower rates of major illness and more active and healthy lifestyles, rates of obesity in our city have significantly increased in recent years, raising concerns around the continued health and wellbeing of our community,” Simon said.

“Almost two thirds of ACT adults are overweight and a staggering one in four is obese. For children, 25 percent fall into the overweight or obese category. Action needs to be taken now to address this growing rate of obesity.

“Incorporating exercise into our daily commute is proven to be highly effective in increasing physical activity, which in turn can help us maintain better health. Even the smallest steps in a person’s day can contribute to keeping them healthy. This is as simple as walking to and from a bus stop or riding a bike for part of the journey to school or work then catching the bus the rest of the way. In the near future, light rail will also contribute to the active transport mix.

“One of the many health benefits associated with light rail is that it will provide better connectivity and accessibility to the city, promoting active transport and decreasing the time people spend in cars. Light rail stops will be easily accessible and within walking distances in areas that are already densely populated or set to become more populated in the future.

“Research indicates that people are prepared to walk up to one kilometre for light rail; a much higher distance than for buses. By walking to a light rail stop to get from home to work or school and back again, a person could complete an extra three kilometres of walking per day compared to driving.

“Cities around the world with integrated active transport networks flourish and grow, generate economic opportunities and jobs, create great places to live and achieve positive health outcomes.

“The ACT Government’s commitment to active transport initiatives, including the delivery of a city-wide light rail network, will ensure the continued health and wellbeing of our city.”

The Heart Foundation (ACT) public seminar series is being delivered as part of the Active Living Program which is a partnership with the ACT and the Foundation to support the meaningful inclusion of active living principles into policies, design and practice in Canberra.