Reports from the Surgeon General, the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and several governmental reports indicate that physical activity and obesity are two of the leading health indicators.  Not being overweight or obese may prevent early death from heart disease, diabetes, and other major causes of death in the U.S. Physical activity which requires us to engage in continuous movement for at least 30 minutes aids in weight control and increases muscle and bone strength.  This in turn helps our joints to remain strong and flexible and allows us full range of motion.

Physical activity also raises our metabolism, decreases body fat and provides for a growth of lean muscle mass.  It elevates our moods and spirits and contributes to our overall feelings of wellness.  The social contacts we have while exercising in a group setting have been shown to aid us in continuing in our program and attaining measurable results.  If we are accountable to our buddies to show up on time for a walk, it will be harder for us to find excuses not to exercise.

Proper nutrition of course, plays a very important role in our fight to maintain a healthy life style.  The new government food guidelines issued on 1/13/05 advised us to count calories, not carbohydrates, and eat more fruits and vegetables and less fats, sweets and salt.  It also requests us to perform daily physical activity of 30 minutes or longer.  Reputable weight control plans advise eating a nutritious breakfast of whole wheat grains and high fiber foods, drinking plenty of water, consuming several portions of fruits and vegetables, and eating 5-6 smaller meals during the day so as never to become totally famished and overeat at one particular meal.

Pre-plan your meals to provide yourself with readily available healthy choices.  Don’t eat from boredom or stress, eat if you are hungry.  Add daily exercise to your healthy plan and be prepared to realize great results.  Remember studies show that the greatest changes come to those individuals who go from being totally sedentary to exercising only 1 or 2 times per week!

Article by Bob McDowell, Certified Personal Trainer.