FAQs

Physical activity is important at any age for good physical and mental health and wellbeing. Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviours are a risk factor for a variety of mental illnesses including depression, anxiety, and age- related cognitive decline.

Based on the latest available ABS data, 35% adults aged 18–64 are insufficiently physically active. More women (39%) than men (32%) did not do the recommended amount of physical activity (ABS 2022b). 

Increasing the level of physical activity in the Maroondah Community is likely to have a major impact on public health. Other benefits include making social connections, increasing productivity, and positive changes to the environments, such as reduced traffic congestion and safer neighbourhoods.

There are different factors that affect the physical activity levels of specific populations and therefore different approaches are required to overcome these. The draft Physical Activity Strategy 2024 - 2029 focuses on four key outcome areas which highlight opportunities for Council action:

1. Increasing active travel – Encourage and support walking, cycling and use of public transport.

2. Spaces and places that encourage physical activity – Create vibrant areas, active public open spaces, where people feel safe, welcomed and motivated.

3. Supporting diversity in sport – Support inclusive sporting settings to achieve participation that reflects our increasingly diverse community.

4. Connecting with our least active residents – design and promotion of accessible opportunities, infrastructure and positive messaging.

Some of the challenges affecting physical activity levels in the Maroondah community were identified. They include:

• A perceived or genuine lack of time is reported as a primary reason Maroondah residents do not undertake enough regular physical activity
• The need for accessible spaces, places and opportunities
• Lack of self-motivation, feelings of guilt and self-blame for various reasons
• Opportunities for physical activity not being built into everyday routines
• Language barriers 
• Financial constraints, high casual 
• Safety
• Lack of transport / logistical difficulty
• Lack of confidence

The top five activities undertaken by Maroondah residents were reported as:

• walking
• fitness class/gym
• running/jogging
• cycling
• yoga/pilates

The list highlighted the preference for physical activity pursuits that are non-competitive, informal or unstructured, and/or can be undertaken in one’s own time.

Priority actions will be led by a wide range of Council service areas. The eight Council departments identified as having a direct impact on Maroondah community's ability to participate in physical activity are:

• Leisure and Major Facilities
• City Futures
• Projects and Asset Management
• Engineering and Building Services
• Communications and Citizen Experience
• Operations
• Community Services
• Community Safety