Why you need to MOVE

Your body, that is. 

Basking in the sun, mindlessly scrolling through social media in bed or watching your favourite shows… we’ve all been there, probably doing it right this minute. And yes, it can sometimes be just the tonic of peace and calm you need. To just sit, relax and laze away for a few hours. 

Our bodies, on the other hand, were not designed to be inactive. In fact, when your body goes through periods of inactivity, it can trigger the start of health problems. 

Exercise or anything that involves moving your body is physical activity and your body absolutely needs regular activity to keep ticking along in a healthy way.

In fact, being physically active can actually help you live a happier life. Movement and activity improve your brain health, weight control, helps with disease prevention, bone and muscle strength, and the ability to perform daily tasks.

Besides, the heart is a muscle that, like all muscles, needs exercise to function properly. When you’re active, your lungs work harder to get oxygen into your bloodstream so it can be pumped to all of your body's tissues and cells. 

So, are you ready to start living a healthier lifestyle? Take it one step at a time.

Get moving!

You don't need to do any special exercises or join a gym to get in shape. Simply go for a walk, mow the lawn, clean the house or follow along with a dancing workout video.

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. Anything that increases your heart rate, makes you breathe faster, and ups your body temperature is a winner. Lifting weights, climbing stairs, gardening or carrying heavy groceries are all good muscle-strengthening exercises to do at least twice a week.

 

How your body reacts to exercise

  • Exercise raises good cholesterol while decreasing bad cholesterol, lowering your risk of cardiovascular disease.
  • It can help regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
  • Helps you maintain a healthy weight.
  • It can help improve cognitive function.
  • It can help treat arthritis and other rheumatic conditions that affect the joints.
  • Regular exercise can help manage or prevent strokes and falls.
 

See your doctor before starting physical activity if:

  • Physical activity causes pain in your chest.
  • You’re over the age of 45.
  • You frequently faint or experience severe dizziness. 
  • Moderate physical activity leaves you gasping for air.
  • You have a high risk of heart disease.
  • You suspect you have heart disease or heart problems.
  • You’re pregnant. 

 

Good to know

Regular exercise not only protects your heart, it can also help you sleep better and improve your mood, attention and memory. Regular physical activity can imbue you with energy and confidence, which can even help your sex life. Get up every few minutes while you're working or watching something to get some movement in. Sedentary behaviour is very unhealthy.


Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.