Benefits of Physical Activity

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A daily exercise program can provide a way to share an activity with family and friends, while helping establish good heart-healthy habits. For children, daily exercise deters conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure, poor cholesterol levels, and poor lifestyle habits that lead to heart attack and stroke later in life. For older people, daily physical activity helps delay or prevent chronic illnesses and diseases associated with aging, and maintains quality of life and independence longer.

Finding the right exercise program and the right preparation:

 

    * improves blood circulation throughout the body

    * keeps weight under control

    * improves blood cholesterol levels

    * prevents and manages high blood pressure

    * prevents bone loss

    * boosts energy level

    * releases tension

    * improves the ability to fall asleep quickly and sleep well

    * improves self-image

    * helps manage stress

    * counters anxiety and depression

    * increases enthusiasm and optimism

    * increases muscle strength

 

To be physically fit you do not have to exercise hard for long periods of time. Experts agree that physical activity does not have to be vigorous, and recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily, or on most days of the week. If you have an existing medical condition, or are just starting an exercise program, be sure to consult your physician prior to beginning the program to make sure the exercise program that you choose is designed with your health and wellness top of mind. Choose an activity that you will enjoy. You are more likely to continue exercising if you are doing something that you like.

 

In the beginning, follow a program that includes moderate, not vigorous, physical activity. Start off with 30 minutes a day, and allow for some variety in your fitness routine not only in the fitness activity that you choose, but in the time, and setting. This helps to eliminate boredom with any one activity or location. Be sure to start off any work out/exercise session with proper warm-up and stretching exercises. This will help to avoid post-exercise soreness or injury.

 

Wear the proper attire when exercising, including shoes with the proper support for the activity. Also, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. Just as warming-up and stretching is important as you begin each exercise session, so is a cool-down period at the end of your exercise activity. This should include at least several minutes of stretching or walking. For more details visit http://www.soundbodytrainer.com/