WHY EXERCISE?

Some of us love it, some of us hate it….. but exercise is one of the most important things we can do for our long-term health and longevity. This month, let’s talk about the physical benefits of exercise and why we should ALL be incorporating exercise into our daily lives. 

The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada recommends that adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per week, in periods of 10 minutes or more at a time.

Exercise is Essential for Cardiovascular Health. 

Many of us have busy schedules so if you’re not active now, the idea incorporating exercise into your life can seem overwhelming.

There are easy ways to exercise and get more active! 

• Take a 10-15 minute walk on your lunch hour.
• Take the stairs.
• Start walking your dog in the morning and/or when you get home at night. 
• Play outside with your kids.   Ride bikes, play some one-on-one, or road hockey. 
• Make exercise a fun part of your lifestyle. It’s easier to keep up that way & you’ll also be setting a healthy example for your children. 

The most important thing as that you get active and stay active.

Cardiovascular health is just one reason to exercise. Improved mood, weight control, better sleep, boosted energy and improved posture. As well as a decreased risk of disease, chronic conditions and certain cancers.

Adding strength training into your exercise routine can help increase bone density, improve balance and prevent falls. This doesn’t mean you have to go to a gym and start a whole weight-lifting program. Starting with basic bodyweight exercises will do the trick!  Squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks are all exercises that will help increase muscle strength. 

Our bodies were made to move. Make the time to exercise, it will pay off.  Many people find it easier to do if you have a buddy.  Find a family member, friend or neighbour that may like to incorporate more exercise into their lives too and do it together to help motivate and support each other.

If you don’t know how to start, the practitioners at FORM Health can help make suggestions that are appropriate for you.  It is also important to discuss any new exercise program with your health care practitioner(s). Spring is here now and the weather is improving – it’s the perfect time to get outside and start that exercise program you have been putting off.  Have fun and move your body!