Physical activity is a crucial aspect of your life, one that can help save you from many diseases. A small change in your routine can help ensure years of health, improve the quality of your life, and ensure a step in the right direction.
The recommended 150 minutes of cardiovascular and strength physical activity per week will change your life. Unfortunately, only 20% of Americans make the cut. Whereas more than half of baby boomers get no exercise, while the 80.2 million Americans that are 6+ get completely inactive. A shocking study that does not paint a healthy future for anyone. Its time to make a change, and here is the reason why!
Regular Physical Activity
Regular physical activity is crucial and can help you achieve endless benefits. These range from, but are not limited to”
- Manage your weight to help improve your quality of life.
- Reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases/heart damages.
- Keep your blood cholesterol in check.
- Lower your risk of gaining type 2 diabetes.
- Lower and maintain your blood pressure.
- Boost bone and muscle development.
- Build an immune system that ensures quick recovery.
- Boosts your mood, energy, and helps you destress.
Mental Health
Studies show that individuals who deal with depression can benefit a great deal from daily exercises. While the views may vary on how, but the stance stands. Here are a few ways exercise helps with mental health:
- Regular exercise can help block negative thoughts or keep you focused on your health.
- Increase your social content by working out in a shared gym, or going for a walk with family or friends.
- Destressing with exercise can help lift your mood, and even help improve your sleeping patterns.
How To Get Started
Rome was not built in a day, so keep reminding yourself to take it slow. Choosing a realistic approach helps you stay on track, and keeps you coming back for more. Once you have set a routine you can add to it when you feel you are ready to take the next step. A great place to start is with a 30 minutes walk around your block, or in any park.
When starting with 0% exercise of physical activity you have to be careful with how much you take on. Which is why you must keep your health in mind, and start with what you feel is comfortable. Once you get started and are able to build up your stamina and resistance you may take it up a notch!
Ways You Can Increase Physical Activity
Increasing your daily physical activity is easier than you think! Regardless of your age, you can easily make slight changes to your routine. For instance, you may consider walking to the nearest store rather than driving there. Or you can stop taking the bus to work, and cycle there instead. Kids can walk to school with a friend, or even with you to ensure you get some much-needed exercise as well!
Individuals over the age of 50 can start by moving around inside and around their homes, getting as much done as possible. Once comfortable you can start walking on your street and even make a few friends in your neighborhood!
Consult Your Doctor
It's best to get a regular checkup before you take on any active program if:
- Physical activity causes chest pains.
- You are 45 years or older.
- You experience dizzy spells.
- Minimal movement makes you breathless.
- At the risk of heart disease or have a heart problem.
- You are pregnant.
A regular check-up can ensure you are fit to take part in an activity session while offering you an insight into what needs to be done to ensure health. Only a physical will be able to guide you in the right direction based on your unique diagnosis.