The Benefits of Regular Physical Activity
We are all told that we need to be active for the sake of our health. Many of us lead busy lives that make fitting in exercise difficult. The simple fact of the matter is to maintain overall well being, we must make exercise a priority.
Exactly how much activity do we need to benefit our overall health? The answer, according to the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology, is 150 minutes/week, or 30 minutes 5X per week.
That doesn't REALLY sound like that much does it?
The rewards are definitely worth the effort.
Just this can begin to help manage weight, reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and other chronic diseases. Even people dealing with these can see dramatic improvements in the effects of such diseases, even to the point of reducing reliance on medication.
What about improved strength and endurance? Working on these will help with improving ability to perform every day tasks!
Stress in your life? There is no better remedy for managing stress than physical activity. Think of the times you have gone for a long walk or run, and felt so much better. Like you are able to handle the things that come at you on a daily basis. How does this work? Physical activity reduces the 'stress hormone' Cortisol, which is definitely a factor in our overall metabolism.
Finally, exercise can improve the quality of your sleep. 7-9 hours of good quality sleep is essential for overall good health. Think of how you feel after a great night's sleep.
So what activity works best?
Simply put, one you enjoy and will participate in regularly. Walking is a good beginning! Make sure to include some resistance work though, to keep that muscle mass!
How to make exercise a habit?
Again, find an activity you like! Look for an exercise partner, or engage a personal trainer. This will help keep you accountable. Before you know it, exercise becomes a habit. Just like brushing your teeth! You won't feel the same without it.
With all of these amazing benefits, who doesn't want to get active?
Let's get started today. Book an appointment or send us an email!
Lisa
Personal Trainer
