You May Get More Exercise Than You Think, Just Plan
By Tom Herrin
When people evaluate their health needs, their need for more exercise often rises to the top of the list. It stays on the tops of many lists because the notion of all that exercise seems daunting for many people. In reality, most people actually may get nearer to their objective than they realize. Anyone who moves around is getting some exercise but likely falling a little bit short. With some good planning, and willingness to move, most people can probably get enough exercise to boost their health. The question may simply be, how much exercise is enough?
Minimal Amounts of Exercise May Protect Health
The amount of exercise recommended for anyone to stay healthy may vary according to different things. It has been recommended for those 65 or older to get at least 2 1/2 hours of moderate exercise per week in order to manage blood pressure, protect against heart disease and some cancers, and help avoid some other health issues. The unfortunate thing is that it is believed that fewer than 20 percent of individuals in that age group get the amount that is recommended.
Something Is Always Better Than Nothing
A study was released by the American Journal of Preventive Cardiology that indicated older adults who exercised fewer than 30 minutes per day reduced their risk of cardiovascular disease by 14 percent as compared to those who were inactive. In other words, no matter where people begin, they can almost always improve as long as they do something. The hope is that they will be more motivated once they start and see that they can do it.
Avoid Becoming Couch Potatoes
It is pretty easy to do nothing. We live in a world of conveniences and most take full advantage of it. Finding ways to get in a little more exercise through daily routine is really not that difficult. I try to do something I normally do and just add a few extra steps. I look for a parking space as far as possible from the door when I go to the supermarket. I also don't mind making a few extra trips to the car when I am bringing things in. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator can provide some pretty good exercise without doing too much extra. There are plenty of ways. All we need to do is remind ourselves to take advantage of them. We really can get enough exercise to be healthier with good planning.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Longmont, Colo.