The Consequences of Physical Inactivity are Staggering
- More Americans are overweight. Adult (and childhood) obesity/overweight level continues to increase: 65% of all Adults are obese or overweight.
- It is more difficult today to create an active lifestyle. People are less active due to technology and better transportation. Our legs are meant to be our main source of transportation. Walking is how we were meant to get from point A to point B. Use those legs and walk more.
- Sedentary jobs have increased 83% since 1950; Physically active jobs now make up only about 25% of our workforce. That is 50% less than 1950.
- Our average work week is longer. Americans work 47 hours a week - 164 more hours a year than 20 years ago.
- Extra weight costs us physically and financially. The average healthcare cost exceeds $3,000 per person annually. An obese employee costs employer additional $460 to $2,500 in medical costs and sick days per year.
Benefits of Physical Activity!
Do you want to add years to your life or life to your years?
Feeling your best boosts your zeal for life! It is recommended that you get in 30 minutes of moderate activity each day. But, did you know that three 10 minute periods of activity are almost as beneficial to your overall fitness as one 30 minute session? This is achievable! Physical activity may also help encourage you to spend some time outdoors. Sunlight on your skin helps your body produce vitamin D, which brings many added health benefits and reduces the Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Here are MORE reasons why physical activity is proven to improve both mental and physical health.
- Physical activity boosts mental wellness. Regular physical activity can relieve tension, anxiety, depression and anger. You may not only notice a "feel good sensation" immediately following your physical activity, but most people also note an improvement in general well-being over time during the weeks and months as physical activity becomes a part of your routine. Exercise also helps your brain by increasing the flow of oxygen.
- Physical activity improves physical wellness by creating stronger immunity. Physical activity enhances your immune system and decreases the risk of developing diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
- Reduced risk factors - Becoming more active can lower your blood pressure by as much as 4 to 9 mm Hg. That's the same reduction in blood pressure delivered by some antihypertensive medications. Physical activity can also boost your levels of good cholesterol. It is much better than medications, which have long term side effects.
- Physical activity prolongs your optimal health. Without regular physical activity, the body slowly loses its strength, stamina and ability to function well. For each hour of regular exercise you get, you'll gain about two hours of additional life expectancy, even if you don't start until middle age. Moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, for as little as 30 minutes a day has the proven health benefits listed above as well as:
- Improves blood circulation, which reduces the risk of heart disease
- Keeps weight under control
- Helps in the battle to quit smoking
- Improves blood cholesterol levels
- Prevents and manages high blood pressure
- Prevents bone loss
- Boosts energy level
- Helps manage stress
- Releases tension
- Promotes enthusiasm and optimism
- Counters anxiety and depression
- Helps you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly
- Improves self-image
- Increases muscle strength, increasing the ability to do other physical activities
- Provides a way to share an activity with family and friends
- Reduces coronary heart disease in women by 30-40 percent
- Reduces risk of stroke by 20 percent in moderately active people and by 27 percent in highly active ones
- Establishes good heart-healthy habits in children and counters the conditions (obesity, high blood pressure, poor cholesterol levels, poor lifestyle habits, etc.) that lead to heart attack and stroke later in life
- Helps delay or prevent chronic illnesses and diseases associated with aging and maintains quality of life and independence longer for seniors
What are you waiting for! Start today and get moving!
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