Reasons To Stay Active

Times have changed. As automobiles, automation, computers, television, and other influences play greater roles in peoples lives around the world, people tend to become more sedentary. Today, modern technology and conveniences have made our lives much easier leading to inactivity and sedentary lifestyle. This is a BIG problem. Many of us are no longer getting the exercise we need to stay healthy. Here I will tell you the reasons for becoming more active.

For most healthy adults, the Department of Health and Human Services recommends these exercise guidelines: http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/everyone/guidelines/adults.html/

Aerobic activity. Get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity. You also can do a combination of moderate and vigorous activity. The guidelines suggest that you spread out this exercise during the course of a week.

Strength training. Do strength training exercises at least twice a week. No specific amount of time for each strength training session is included in the guidelines.

Moderate aerobic exercise includes such activities as brisk walking, swimming and mowing the lawn. Vigorous aerobic exercise includes such activities as running and aerobic dancing. Strength training can include use of weight machines, or activities such as rock climbing or heavy gardening.

As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. If you want to lose weight or meet specific fitness goals, you may need to exercise more. Want to aim even higher? You can achieve more health benefits if you ramp up your exercise to 300 minutes a week.

Short on long chunks of time? Even brief bouts of activity offer benefits. For instance, if you can't fit in one 30-minute walk, try three 10-minute walks instead. What's most important is making regular physical activity part of your lifestyle.

Reason #1: Do It For The Physical Health Benefits

1. Lower your risk of getting heart disease, stroke, colon cancer, and type 2 diabetes
2. Lower or prevent high blood pressure
3. Possibly help protect against breast cancer
4. Improve your posture and balance
5. Reduce mild to moderate anxiety and depression
6. Promote psychological well-being
7. Help you handle stress
8. Help maintain a healthy weight
9. Make you feel more energetic Help you sleep better

Reason #2: Do It For The Fun

Most people who dance, swim, play tennis, or go hiking do it because they like it! But having fun also benefits your health. Taking part in an activity that you enjoy will help you relax and reduce stress. It will also help you feel good about yourself. The end result? Improved mental health.

What activity appeals to you? It makes sense to find an activity that you enjoy doing by yourself or with others, because you are more likely to stick with it. Find out what opportunities there are in your community to try new activities and learn new skills.

Physical activity doesn’t have to be hard to be good for your body. You don’t have to sweat it out at a gym if you would prefer to be outdoors or walking in a mall. Vary your activities, so you don't get bored. Use different jogging, walking, or biking paths to vary your routine.

Reason #3: Do It To Spend Time with Family And Make New Friends

Being active will give you opportunities to meet people and connect with family and friends. Your time is one of the most precious gifts you can give your family. Spend more time outdoors with your partner and/or children. The fresh air and space offer the freedom to leap, run, and climb. Walk the dog, play at the park, teach your children a game from your childhood, or listen to your grandparents’ stories as you wander through a museum.

Group activities at a community or recreation centre can provide you with social support and a sense of belonging. While getting the exercise your body needs, you can also make friends who can help you deal with the stresses of life. Check out programs that are available locally, and talk to your friends about activities they do.
Reason #4: Do It To Stay Independent As You Get Older

Physical activity helps you live better as you grow older. Staying active will help you reach, bend, lift, carry, and move around more easily, so you can continue doing the things you like to do. The more you sit or lie around, the stiffer your joints become. Stretching and strength exercises will keep your muscles and joints mobile and help to prevent falls and injuries.

You’re never too old to enjoy the benefits of more activity. Being active is safe for most people. Start slowly and build up. If you are unsure about how much activity to do, talk to your doctor.

It’s Important to Be Active!!!!

Being active is one of the most important things you can do for your health. When you’re active, your body works better, and you lower your chances of getting ill. Activity makes you feel good, gives you more energy, and makes you feel better about yourself.

Physical activity doesn’t need to be a chore. Do activities you enjoy a little more often. Set specific, short-term goals, and reward yourself (with something other than food!) when you achieve them. Make your activity a regular part of your day, so it becomes a habit.

Remember that feeling good on the inside and outside are just not about being thin, killing yourself exercising, or for that matter, not enjoying food or starving yourself.

Remember, it’s about a Healthy Lifestyle.