Physical Activity
Why bother with physical activity? Here are 10 good reasons
1. Gives you more energy
2. Increases your stamina
3. Stronger and more toned muscles
4. Reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke
5. Builds healthy bones
6. Improves your posture
7. Increases your self esteem and confidence
8. Gives you a better shape and appearance
9. Helps maintain a healthy weight
10. It can be fun!
Did you know that being active actually gives you more energy, so if you're feeling tired all the time, consider some exercise.
If you do intend to increase your levels of exercise and you have any health concerns, always see your own doctor beforehand.
You should try to do around 30 minutes of exercise each day for a minimum of 5 days a week . This doesn't mean you have to join a gym, here are some tips to increasing your level of activity:
Getting started
- Start with everyday activities by doing them more energetically -
Things like the ironing, hoovering, walking the dog, washing windows, pushing a pram and gardening can all be done more actively.
- You can increase your level of activity by -
Gradually progressing to more demanding exercise on a more regular for example slow cycling, leisurely swimming or dancing.
- Moving on -
After 6 weeks of regular exercise you will begin to feel the benefits.
To further improve, try increasing the duration and if you are walking, jogging or swimming, try to increase the distance.
You may be surprised at the distances you cover just by going about your daily routine. All it takes is just 30 minutes of brisk walking each day to make a difference …
Other physical activities you might like to think about trying…
Jogging, rowing, bowling, dancing, golf, swimming, hiking, tennis, badminton, football, cycling, aerobics, triathlon!
The Oak Healthy Living Centre offers several physical activities. Check out details of Aerobics, Yoga, Tai Chi, Dancing, Walking, Boccia on this website, or drop in to the Centre.
Click on the following link www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/ and look under Exercise in the Health encyclopaedia