Did you know that if you’re physically inactive that you raise your risk of cardiovascular disease by precisely the exact same amount as though you smoked? In the UK it is estimated that 70 percent of the adult population can be classed as physically inactive. In the US 60 percent of adults don’t engage in the recommended level of physical activity and 25% aren’t active in any way.
Let’s see…
In Australia 33 percent of the population are believed to be so inactive that they gain no health benefits whatsoever and also the threat to the community from their physical sin, and so lack of fitness, is terrific. For thousands of years physical activity and your level of fitness have been linked to good health.
Because of the progress of science in this day & age this connection can be demonstrated, with overwhelming evidence that those who lead busy lifestyles are not as likely to die early or to undergo big illnesses like heart disease, diabetes & colon cancer. Fitness is therefore a significant, if not the major, factor in the form of health you are most likely to enjoy.
Regular exercise
It will improve your level of fitness and enhance how you feel and look. In combination with a balanced diet routine activity can help you maintain a healthy weight. It may even increase self confidence and reduce the risk of depression. So as to maintain ones fitness it’s recommended that you ought to consume approx 200 calories daily for most days of the week. This equates to 30 minutes of exercise that may be all in one go or even in 3 10 minute stints.
What to do?
Here are a few suggestions to help maintain your fitness.
- Walk up the stairs (even part of the way) rather than taking the elevator.
- Walk moving escalators.
- For short journeys leave the car and walk.
- Do the home work at double the speed.
- Try DIY like painting or do some gardening such as raking the leaves.
- Get off the subway or bus a few stops early and walk the rest of the way.
Benefits
Here are some benefits you’ll receive from enhanced fitness through exercise.
- Increased levels of HDL or “good” cholesterol. Lower high blood pressure.
- Help improve body composition by burning fat.
- Promote healthful glucose levels.
- Boost the immune system. Improve mood and decrease the odds of depression.
- Improving your level of fitness should not be hard work, find some activity that you like, maybe with your spouse, family or friends.
Conclusion
Stay motivated, keep a journal of your activities so that you can look back and see how far you’ve come. Post inspirational quotes or stories at work or around the house. Set goals, both short and long term, rather than state you need to get fit for summer time, commit to going to the gym or aerobic class at least one time a week. Picture where you need to be, possibly competing at a local fun run or race, get out an old pair of jeans or a dress that no longer matches & picture yourself wearing them/it. Remember that exercise releases substances to the brain such as serotonin that has a terrific impact on your mood, helping to decrease anxiety, tension and depression. So even if you don’t feel like exercising, remind yourself that you will feel much better later.