Independent Member for Alfred Cove Dr Janet Woollard is urging the community to stay active and healthy as they partake in celebrations over Christmas and New Year.

"As the holiday and festive season is upon us, it is timely to think about the benefits of eating good food, moderating our alcohol intake and engaging in enjoyable physical activity," said Dr Woollard.

"This combination should help ensure a happy and healthy Christmas, and a great start to 2010 for everyone."

Dr Woollard further encouraged members of the community to join her in making the resolution to increase their physical activity in 2010.

"Unfortunately busy family and work life, labour saving devices, technology and increased car ownership and dependency have prevented us from being more active," said Dr Woollard.

"Studies have shown that at least 40% of Western Australians are not engaging in enough physical activity to gain health benefits. Physical inactivity has also become one of the lead contributors to burden of disease among Australians.

"It takes as little as 30 minutes of physical activity each day to achieve good health and healthy weight and prevent the onset of health conditions such as coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases."

Dr Woollard said increased physical activity can also result in benefits to one’s mental well-being and social relationships.

The community can access information on how to increase their physical activity at www.findthirtyeveryday.com.au.

"Let me take this opportunity to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a prosperous 2010 ahead and to invite you once again to join me in my own resolution to lead a more active lifestyle in 2010," said Dr Woollard.