Sedentary lifestyles are becoming very commonplace. According to the WHO, between 60% and 70% of individuals worldwide are not engaged in the minimum suggested amount of physical activity needed to achieve and maintain good health.
That statistic should not just concern you, but in fact, it should shock you. It’s very likely that YOU are among the 60% of individuals that are not getting enough physical activity, and that is going to lead to some very serious health problems and perhaps even an early death for you.
Perhaps worse than an early death is ending up in a situation where our loved ones have to take care of us because we have suffered a debilitating stroke or heart attack, and all because of our sedentary lifestyle. This is nothing to brush off, thinking that it cannot happen to me. Think about this fact: non-communicable diseases that are the direct result of physical inactivity are now the greatest threat to public health on a global basis. In particular, insufficient physical activity is a real concern among certain high risk populations, such as older adults, young people, and women.
Some of the factors that have contributed to the increase in physical inactivity are wide spread use of the automobile, automation, and labour-saving devices. Additionally, many individuals spend significant amounts of time sitting in front of the television or on the computer surfing the Internet, chatting, or playing online games. This is of particular concern because of the numbers of young people that do not get enough physical activity. Their risk of suffering from the diseases mentioned above are multiplied many fold because they lack sufficient activity at such a young age.
Heart disease
Obesity
High blood pressure
Osteoarthritis
Certain types of cancer
Stroke
Be done daily, if possible
Obesity
Depression
Please note that the suggestion for moderate exercise does not mean that you do not need to engage in vigorous physical activity if you are able to do so. The fact is that a significant amount of research has been done that clearly shows vigorous physical activity provides extra health benefits that moderate exercise does not. For example, improving the health of the heart and circulatory system, the metabolizing of glucose, increasing lean muscle mass, preventing and overcoming mood disorders such as depression, strengthening of bones and joints.
Include a variety of activities
Strengthening of bones and joints
Increasing and strengthening the body’s lean muscle
Improving heart and circulatory system health
When thinking about the numerous health benefits that increasing the amount of physical activity we get each day will bring, why wouldn’t anyone want to do so? The risks of suffering from diabetes, heart disease, stroke, certain forms of cancer, obesity and depression are all greatly reduced by getting a sufficient amount of daily exercise. The human body also becomes better equipped to handle harder physical work as we get into better shape and increase our level of fitness. As well, our mental well being and overall quality of life is greatly enhanced by daily exercise. This is especially important as we age.
There really are no more excuses. If you really care about your health and the health and future of your loved ones, then it’ time to start doing something about your sedentary lifestyle. It’s time to get moving – everyday!
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