Everyone knows exercise is good for you, but finding the time to exercise regularly is a BIG challenge for many people, either due to their busy school and work schedules, family duties, a lack of motivation, a dislike for the gym or a number of other factors.
There’s good news, however, as experts are now saying short bouts of exercise are just as good (and maybe even better) than intense, extended workouts. Studies have shown that doing even just 20 minutes of moderate- intensity exercise a day can hugely benefit our health.
What counts as exercise?
Moderate-intensity exercise even includes brisk walking, housework and mowing the lawn. It’s important to remember that if you aren’t currently very active, then any small increase in activity levels really helps. A really good start is to think about your current level and then think about how you can weave a bit more activity into your day. Start with walking around the office, taking the stairs instead of an elevator or escalator, or taking a short walk on a coffee break.
Why is exercise so important?
It can be a powerful tool for prevention, proven to help protect against cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression and anxiety. Plus it can improve thinking, learning and judgment, and even help you get a better night’s sleep.
“Becoming more active has many health benefits; it helps promote healthy ageing and support positive mental health,” says Dr Anna Lowe, physical activity clinical champion for Public Health England.
The stronger you are, the more your fitness improves and, thinking of longevity, the more you’ll be able to do when you’re older.
Don’t forget moving for wellness can be fun.
Start your morning with a happy dance and release those endorphins! Play football or basketball with the kids, go for a hike on a beautiful day, go swimming in peaceful waters and recruit a partner or friend to join in the fun and improved health. The days of being in a gym for hours at a time or dreading a long, intense workout are not necessary.
You can improve your health with just incremental bursts of movement that won’t cause burnout because YOU choose your activities and how to implement them daily. The bottom line... JUST MOVE!
All the best