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Doesn't matter what you do—just move.

1/22/2015

4 Comments

 
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Have you given up on exercise? Due to the mounting evidence that inactivity is linked to heart disease, diabetes and some types of cancer, experts advise everyone to take more exercise. This can take any form you are capable of. Young adults can walk to the shop instead of driving, or even run. For those of us who are older, activity is the key. We might not all have access to a beach for a daily walk, more's the pity, but we can venture outside and stroll in the open air, wherever we live.

UK guidelines for adults recommend at least two-and-a-half hours of moderate activity a week, in bouts of 10 minutes or more.

But in two separate articles in the British Medical Journal, experts argue the message needs to change. Greater emphasis should be put on making inactive people move more. Make small increases in activity levels, rather than pushing to achieve unobtainable goals.

Previous studies show short periods of walking or just 20 minutes of vigorous activity a few times a month can reduce the risk of death, compared to people who do no exercise.

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Older people can do things like occasional window shopping or standing up during television commercial breaks. I notice increased stiffness when I've been sitting for a couple of hours. See the full BBC article. 

Just one out of four people between the ages of 65 and 74 exercises regularly. Never assume you're too out-of-shape, or sick, or tired, or just plain old to exercise. An expert claims physical exertion is almost always good for people of any age. Exercise can help make you stronger, prevent bone loss, improve balance and coordination, lift your mood, boost your memory, and ease the symptoms of many chronic conditions. A strong, agile person be less likely to need help. We all want independence.

I start my day with bending and stretching exercises. Then, while I'm sipping a hot drink, I do facial back and arm exercises before half an hour of meditation. Set up for the day, I dress and begin researching the latest news looking for a topic I can talk about. 

This pep talk has done me the world of good. From now on, I'm going to stand up during each break in a television program. How about you?

4 Comments
Alana link
1/21/2015 07:40:41 pm

Recently I got a hydraulic desk at work, where I can work either sitting or standing. I do both. I love it. I'm fortunate. I've done way too much sitting in my life, although I also exercise. It helped to give me a bad back. Folks, keep moving!

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Amalia link
1/21/2015 09:49:22 pm

During our winter here, it so cold I just don't want to move! But I have been doing workouts-inside! During the summer it's better, because I'm already working out in the garden a lot, and I LOVE my bike. :)

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Amy link
1/21/2015 10:07:18 pm

Francene,
During our long winters here in Nebraska, it's hard to be motivated to go out and exercise! I started going to a little gym in town 3x per week, at 6:15, for a very hard cardio workout. I can't believe how good it feels to sweat and work that hard! I recommend a good workout (or a brisk walk!) for anybody, no matter your age. It just feels good and I know it's great for my heart.

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Tami Principe link
1/21/2015 10:15:36 pm

Moving is the key. Getting up and motivated is another. I get all housework done first thing in the morning and then take a short break, then I am on my feet again, moving. With every movement you are exercising some part of your body. I love walking and riding my bike. Nice blog.

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    Francene Stanley
    From England, I use news items in my novels which you can see below, all linked to an Amazon near you.

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