All of us want to be healthy and at the same time enjoy a fun and active lifestyle. But we need to approach it with some knowledge and preplanning. A recent report from the National Center for Health Statistics concludes that seven out of 10 adults don’t regularly exercise, and nearly four in 10 aren’t physically active. Lack of exercise can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. About 300,000 people in the U.S. die each year from diseases related to inactivity.
Proper diet and exercise is essential for a healthy lifestyle. There needs to be a well planned program to follow and determination to adopt smart habits. The basic steps to gradual weight loss and good health include developing healthy eating habits and increasing daily physical activity.
Self-Help Guidelines For Healthy Activity
Consult your doctor before adopting an exercise regimen, especially if you are at risk for chronic health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, or obesity. Start out slowly and build up activity gradually over a period of months. This will help avoid soreness and injury. Try to accumulate 30 minutes or more of moderate cardiovascular activity each day. You can do all 30 minutes together or through several short sessions. Some examples of cardiovascular activity are running, swimming, bicycling and jumping rope. You can utilize indoor exercise equipment such as treadmills or exercise bikes.
Add strength development exercises at least twice per week.You can do 6 to 12 repetitions of weight resistance exercises and increase the resistance as it becomes easier for strength development. Incorporate physical activity into your day. Walk to the office or store, take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk or jog at lunch time. Make leisure time active. Ride a bike, participate in an exercise class, join in a sports activity. Select activities you enjoy, find satisfying, and give you a feeling of accomplishment. Try “active commuting.” Cycle, walk or in-line skate to work or to the store. For those who are already regularly moderately active, increase the duration and intensity for additional benefits.