Keys to Healthy Living
The benefits of exercise heavily outweigh the costs, “Any body movement produced by skeletal muscles that require energy expenditure is physical activity. Physical activity improves health, whether it is moderate or intensive.” (Pacific Medical Training, 2022). Physical activity can improve muscle, and bone functional health, and cardiorespiratory fitness.
Exercise can reduce the risk of physical and mental conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, depression, and coronary heart disease. “About 25% of adults don’t meet the required levels of physical activity worldwide. Globally, increasing physical activity can eliminate five million deaths annually. Insufficiently active people have an increased risk of getting a disease as compared to those who are active.” (Pacific Medical Training). It enhances learning, and judgment skills while ensuring proper development. Exercise can improve overall well-being.
Physical activity produces endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. The hypothalamus and pituitary gland release endorphins in response to stress. (Harvard Health, 2024). Endorphins are “feel good” chemicals that respond to exercise. Additionally, exercise “increases your heart rate, which triggers norepinephrine, a chemical that may help the brain deal with stress more effectively. Plus, exercise helps to increase blood flow to the brain.” (Aetna, 2024). People who exercise regularly have healthier mindsets and balanced lifestyles.
There are four major categories of exercise; endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. These can be tailored to various levels of intensity. Endurance workouts increase the heart rate and are referred to as aerobic. Exercises such as dancing or swimming improve heart and lung health. Strength exercises build muscle strength, for example, using resistance bands, lifting weights, or lifting body weight. Stretching exercises help improve flexibility and the ability to move. Physical activity is done by moving the body and flexibility allows the body to move with ease.
During exercise, it is important to be careful and safe. Warm up and cool down properly to reduce the risk of muscle strain. Strength training can be intense so, breathe regularly when lifting weights. Using a steady surface when practicing balancing exercises will help to build strength. Be mindful of your breath when performing any kind of physical activity.
Small amounts of activity can affect overall health. The CDC states, “Physical activity can also improve mental health by reducing depression and anxiety. For people with disabilities, physical activity can help support daily living activities and independence.”(CDC, 2022). At Echoing Hills, the individuals served are given many opportunities for physical activity through group outings, camp experiences, and travel possibilities.
Resources
https://pacificmedicalacls.com/physical-inactivity
