Providing support and advice to patients

The Being Active section has lots of information and tips for beginners, those getting back into physical activity, as well as specific population groups, including:

There are also lots of support programmes that you can refer your patients to, such as ​Pae Ora ki Waitaha Healthy Lifestyles.

Check out Getting Started for helpful information on suitable beginner activities such as walking, going to the gym, and dancing.

You can print the information off or give your patient the address to the Active Canterbury website. They can also call 0800 ACTIVE (0800 22 84 83) to get this information themselves.

Advice for patients with type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes

Lifestyle change in people with pre-diabetes reduces their chance of developing diabetes by approximately 50 to 60 percent over three years and 27 percent over 15 years.

Here is some physical activity advice for those with type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes:

  • Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise on most days, such as a brisk walk. This should be increased to 60 minutes per day where possible.
  • Include activities which can strengthen muscles on at least two days per week.
  • Break up sitting time or prolonged periods of inactivity by standing up, stretching and walking around for a few minutes.
  • Think creatively about exercise - choose activities that are enjoyable, sustainable and affordable.

Pae Ora ki Waitaha Healthy Lifestyles can help people who may require extra motivation. A local provider can offer support via telephone, face to face or group sessions.

Get more guidance on how primary care can support young people with early onset type 2 diabetes (Best Practice Advocacy Centre New Zealand - bpac).