Make Exercise Easy!

  Wellness Wednesday

 The U.S. Center for Disease states that exercise is essential for wellness and especially helpful for losing weight or managing it.  With our health rankings in Delaware County being 82 out of 92, we all have a responsibility to encouraging health and wellness in our workplace, our church, our schools, etc. Last month at work I had to take the elevator at work instead of the stairs and I was called out on it because I am always promoting the stairs!  We can lead by example by trying ways to add a little more exercise into your daily routine; maybe start by walking further away from the entrance to a building, or taking the stairs up one floor instead of the elevator. Remember, a healthy adult should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-activity (e.g. brisk walking) every week.

It is also recommended to add in muscle-strengthening activities (e.g. push-up or weight lifting) on two or more days a week that work all major muscles groups (legs, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms). You can break this up into 10 minutes increments throughout your day if time is an issue.

Now, here’s the simple way to do all of them:

            -If you drive to work, try parking a distance from your office and walk the rest of the       way.

            -Always try to take the stairs instead of the elevator.

            -Don’t forget to have fun such as family bike rides, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

            -Walk whenever you trip is a mile or less (weather permitting).

            -At the end of the day, take a walk around the block instead of that late night snack

            - While watching television, do some push-ups/sit-ups during commercials

            -Eat light and take a walk doing your lunch hour.

We owe it to ourselves to do something healthy way everyday. Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health.