Chiropractor Says: Get Moving!
By Brandi Goodman
A lack of movement leads to joint pain, weight gain, and health struggles. You need to get moving -- and keep moving -- if you hope to maintain your health as you age. Chiropractors encourage exercise and physical activity so you can avoid these problems and keep your joints as healthy as possible.
Start Walking
One of the best activities for your joints is walking. You should start taking daily walks to strengthen your lower body and keep your joints from aching due to a lack of movement. Start with a quick walk around the block. Let that turn into a walk around your neighborhood. Start taking walks around trails at a local park. Walk around the mall. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. There are numerous ways to up your capacity for walking.
Get Up and Dance
Dancing is great exercise. You don't have to be a professional to get the benefits. You don't even have to leave your house. Get up and dance in your living room to your favorite songs and you'll be burning plenty of calories in the process. Just be sure you start slow and loosen up your body first before you go all out. You don't want to get injured because your joints were too stiff when you started.
Find Something You Enjoy
Another great tip is to just find something you enjoy. Don't try to force yourself into an exercise routine you hate. It won't last. Look for physical activities you actually enjoy doing, whether it's dancing, biking, swimming, or just playing catch in the backyard with your kid. If you enjoy it, you're more likely to continue to engage in the activity and stay moving in that way.
Try Chair Exercises
Perhaps you already have limited mobility for one reason or another. Getting up and moving won't be as easy, but it's not impossible. At the very least, you can try chair exercises. You can stay seated, but it still allows you to get some blood and oxygen flowing through your body. Try to focus on both your arms and legs if you can, but at least one of those will help. You can even sit and twist to engage your core muscles.
Your body needs movement to thrive. You can't spend your entire day sitting and expect your joints to feel great. Do this daily, and you're even more likely to suffer from chronic joint pain and problems. Get up and get moving and better your body.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Peoria, Ariz.