Get Moving!

For most of us, we hear the words physical activity and immediately think of exercise, going to the gym, working out, jogging or some other torturous activity that will make us sweat, pant, and definitely have sore muscles tomorrow. Some people embrace it, others fight it tooth and nail, and some people just suck it up and tackle the task as well as they can. Science is showing that one of the most important things people can do to improve the health and well-being is to be physically activity, so we need to do whatever it takes to get moving.

Physical Activity Doesn’t Have to be Unpleasant

Physical activity shouldn't cause distress, or be grueling. According to the Surgeon General, the average individual should get a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity movement every week plus muscle strengthening 2 days during the week.  Physical activity is anything that gets your body moving; as long as you get your heart rate up for 10 consecutive minutes, your activity counts.  This can be a little mini obstacle course in your backyard with the kids, a brisk walk on the beach, a bicycle ride around the neighborhood, yoga, a self-defense class, or anything else that you can think of. Don’t think that you have to do something you hate to be physically active.  Think about the things that you enjoy and just get moving.

Physical Activity Has Many Benefits

Everyone regardless of age, ethnicity, shape, or size can reap the health benefits of being physically active according to the Surgeon General’s minimum activity requirements.  Being active isn’t just about controlling your weight. Your commitment to being active should be to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes, reduce your risk of breast and colon cancers, strengthen your bones and muscles, improve your mental health and mood, improve your ability to do daily activities and prevent falls. Above all, you will likely live a longer, happier, healthier life.  Go on... Get moving!