Staying physically active is one of the recommendations by
the U.S. Surgeon General in response to the nationwide increase
in obesity. Keeping active helps you balance the calories
you consume.
In addition, many people
have inactive jobs that require sitting in front of the computer
or at a desk for most of the day. Even if you feel like you're
"running around" all day at work, your heart rate
is probably not elevated at an aerobic level for a prolonged
period of time. In other words, you're not experiencing the
benefits of an aerobic workout. While you might feel tired
after work, your energy might actually improve if you got
some physical activity — maybe a 30-minute walk after
dinner to get your heart rate going.
Regular Exercise Can:
Increase your metabolism.
Give you increased energy.
Improve your cardiovascular function.
Make you feel better.
Improve your mood.
Help control your appetite.
Help you relieve stress and tension.
Helps shape muscles which define our
bodies' contours.
What Counts As Exercise:
There are many types of exercise. You should engage in exercise
that increases your heart rate for at least 30 continuous
minutes most days of the week. Any activities such as walking,
jogging, swimming, dancing, biking, hiking or aerobics can
give you variety and get your heart rate moving. The bottom
line is keep your body moving if you want to keep it healthy.
