Wednesday wisdom, "Find the time"

Exercise (physical activity) is such an important element to a long, happy, healthy lifestyle. There are so many benefits! Here are a few:

Reduces stress
Helps you manage and maintain a healthy weight
Increases fitness level
Helps build and maintain bones, muscles, and joints
Builds endurance and muscle strength
Enhances flexibility and posture
Lowers risk of heart disease, colon cancer, and type 2 diabetes
Helps control blood pressure
Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety

Physical activity and nutrition work together for even better health. Being active increases the amount of calories burned. As people age their metabolism slows, so maintaining energy balance requires moving more and eating less.

Some types of physical activity are especially beneficial:
Aerobic activities – speeds heart rate and breathing and improves heart and lung fitness. Examples are brisk walking, jogging, and swimming.
Resistance, strength building, and weight-bearing activities – helps build and maintain bones and muscles by working them against gravity. Examples are carrying a child, lifting weights, and walking.
Balance and stretching activities – enhances physical stability and flexibility, which reduces risk of injuries. Examples are gentle stretching, dancing, yoga, martial arts, and t’ai chi.

All you need is at least 30 minutes of exercise 5-7 days of the week. So make the time for it! Whether it be first thing in the morning, during your lunch break, of after work. Find what time of day works best for you and stick to it! The benefits far outweigh the guilt of skipping a workout.