By: Chrisy Myhand, RN, BSN, Director of Fitness Center
Lose weight. Exercise more. Sound familiar? That's probably because
those are the most popular New Year's resolutions. Despite good intentions,
the same two are also the most commonly broken.
Without increased physical activity the average person typically has difficulty
losing weight. When you exercise, you burn calories. The more intense
the activity, the more calories you burn.
Exercise also helps prevent or manage other health conditions. Being active
boosts high-density lipoproteins—HDL, the good cholesterol—and
decreases unhealthy triglycerides. This keeps blood flowing to lower cardiovascular
disease risk.
Other benefits of a regular exercise regimen include:
- Lower risk of stroke, certain types of cancer, high blood pressure and
Type 2 diabetes
- Less anxiety and stress
- Management of arthritis
- Reduced risk of falls
- Improved cognitive function
- Better mood
- Boosts energy
- Promotes better sleep
- Increased socialization
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), physical
activity is one of the best things you can do to improve your health and
live longer. Statistics show half of all
American adults have one or more preventable chronic diseases. Yet, seven
of the ten most common diseases tend to improve with regular exercise.
Moving more and sitting less is key to healthier, longer lives for all
ages, races and genders.
This year, instead of making a personal resolution to exercise more, make
a choice for the entire family to get healthier by moving more and sitting
less. Let's get moving!
Guidelines for all ages
The US Department of Health and Human Services promotes regular physical
activity for ages 3 and up. The department's guidelines provide specific
recommendations for three primary age groups and classifies activities
according to intensity levels, aerobic, bone strengthening, muscle strengthening
and balance.
Research shows that health benefits start immediately after exercising,
and even short periods of physical activity boost longevity. The CDC recommends
150 minutes of moderate activity each week, but any physical activity
is better than nothing.
Exercise, at all ages, is key to a healthier life. However, if you have
concerns about your physical abilities or have not exercised in a long
time, check with your doctor before starting any new program.
Along with state-of-the-art fitness amenities at Thibodaux Regional Fitness
Center, the Wellness Center offers WellFit customized plans to help improve
overall health and wellness and to reduce medical risks. Download a brochure
from our website at thibodaux.com or call 985-493-4765.