180 Health: Exercise is Medicine
Imagine if there was a pill that, when taken regularly, could control weight, reduce the risk of heart disease, strengthen bones, uplift mood, and more – all with no major risk of negative side effects. If such a pill existed, it would undoubtedly become the most widely prescribed medication across the globe. The good news? This 'pill' does exist, but not in the form you might expect. The answer is exercise. So, what's the best exercise out there? It’s simple — whatever activity you enjoy and will consistently do. The best exercise is the one that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, interests, and capabilities. So, let’s dive into why exercise isn't just beneficial, but an indispensable ingredient for a healthy life.
The myriad of health benefits tied to regular exercise are incontrovertible. From controlling body weight to reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, fortifying bones and muscles, and boosting mental health and mood — the advantages are vast. But it doesn't stop there. Regular physical activity enhances every system in our body, keeping us robust, agile, and mentally sharp. In particular, lower back pain, the leading global cause of disability, can be effectively managed and even prevented through regular exercise.
The question often arises — how much exercise is enough? The Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines provides an insightful benchmark. It recommends that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity per week, in bouts of 10 minutes or more. Moreover, activities that fortify muscles and bones, employing major muscle groups, should be performed at least two days per week.
However, these guidelines shouldn't be perceived as an upper limit to target, but rather a minimum requirement for maintaining health. Continual improvement should be the aim. Progress lies in steadily challenging oneself physically within safe limits. Always ensure adequate recovery periods between workouts to avoid injury.
Greater intensity and volume of exercise often yield more pronounced benefits. Studies demonstrate that individuals engaged in regular vigorous exercise exhibit a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular diseases compared to their counterparts who opt for moderate-intensity exercise.
This shouldn't intimidate you. A sustainable exercise regimen begins with small steps, gradually intensifying activity levels over time. The best exercise, remember, is the one that you will do. Regularity trumps intensity every single time. It's a long-term commitment, akin to a marathon, not a sprint.
Exercise is indeed medicine, but like any medication, dosage and consistency matter. Whether your preference is walking, running, biking, swimming, weightlifting, yoga, or another beloved activity, the key is to persist. Challenge yourself, establish attainable goals, and celebrate every step of progress. Your body and mind will be profoundly grateful.
Move Freely. Move Mindfully. MoveMentality.
Disclaimer: Hey there, just wanted to let you know that the content shared in this column is for educational and entertainment purposes only, and is not intended to act as a substitute for individualized, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have unique medical concerns, you should always seek care from a trained and licensed medical professional who holds a scope of practice suitable for your individual needs.
MoveMentality offers multiple services to keep your moving and feeling your best, including athletic-based chiropractic care, medical acupuncture, custom orthotics, personal training and nutrition, as well as alternative health services like tapping and cupping. We direct bill to insurance.
68 Colborne St, Fenelon Falls,
705-307-6683
movementalityKL@gmail.com
