A Few More Minutes of Activity May Be All It Takes
By Tom Herrin
Even though it may seem like it, having an impact on health does not always require some "big" event. That is, there are plenty of good quality workout programs available. When people really want to do something that can have a positive effect on their health, they may not need to look past their everyday activities. The world today may have ever shrinking levels of activity. It is a somewhat sad end to what was intended to provide greater comfort and freedom. Utilizing modern conveniences can save time and steps. While saving time is good, saving time can sometimes be more of the problem than the solution.
Those Few Additional Steps May Preserve Life
Too often, people aspire to the time in which they can have it made. In other words, they would like to put forth less effort in what they do. This sounds good but can be really devastating as to its effect on health. In a study released in the journal Hypertension, it looked at a small group of inactive adults who were either overweight or obese and between the ages of 55 and 80. The findings were that when they walked just 30 minutes each morning, their blood pressure stayed lower throughout the day. This is pretty significant in terms of helping those with blood pressure issues.
Older People Take Off Too Often
Many appear to believe that when they retire, they do so from everything. This should not be the case. Movement and activity is necessary for the body to function properly. It has been said that those 65 or older should get a minimum of 2 1/2 hours per week of moderate exercise to help manage blood pressure and general health. It has been estimated that fewer than 20 of those in that age group reach that recommended level. Getting out of the rocking chair for just a few more minutes per day may go a long way toward protecting health.
Expand on Your Routine for Better Health
It really isn't that difficult to do more. It can be done in small increments. I like to find ways to increase the steps I take. When possible, I will take the stairs instead of the elevator. I will also try to park as far as possible from the door when I go to the supermarket. Even walking to the end of the block and back may add a few minutes and steps. The point is that we simply need to think more about being active and forget about trying to find the easy way every time.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Red Oak, Tex.