Regular activity has a number of proven,
positive health effects, especially on heart health. Vigorous exercise
strengthens the heart as a pump, making it a larger, more efficient muscle. Even
moderate activity can boost HDL ('good') cholesterol, aid the circulatory
system, and lower blood pressure and blood fats. All these effects translate
into reduced risk for heart disease, heart attack, and
stroke.
Exercise can also offer other benefits,
including strengthened muscles, increased flexibility, and stronger bones,
which can help ward off the bone-thinning condition called osteoporosis.
Regular activity also promises mental-health benefits, like relieving stress
and anxiety. It can help you sleep better and renew your energy. If exercise
could be bottled, it would be a best-selling potion at the local pharmacy.
Virtually everyone can get health
benefits from activity.
But every few years, surveys confirm the well-known fact that most
people aren't active enough. Unfortunately, we pay for it.
The American Heart Association attributes about 250,000 deaths
a year in the US - about 12 percent of total deaths - to lack of regular physical activity.
But every few years, surveys confirm the well-known fact that most
people aren't active enough. Unfortunately, we pay for it.
The American Heart Association attributes about 250,000 deaths
a year in the US - about 12 percent of total deaths - to lack of regular physical activity.
The reasons for inactivity aren't hard to
figure out. Most of us have jobs where we sit most of the time, so chances
are limited to be physically active at work. We also rely heavily on modern,
labor-saving devices - cars, appliances, and power tools - to spare us
manual effort. But there's another reason why many people, especially the
overweight, avoid activity. Check out the firm, supple bodies shown
exercising on television or on magazine covers. They give the impression that
exercise is sweaty, strenuous work best reserved for the young, super-fit,
and athletic. But the latest research is proving that picture false:
Benefits can be gained even from low-intensity activity, like gardening.
Eat Right Exercise Don’t Smoke! Get Plenty of Rest!
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