| There are many good reasons to be physically active. In addition to the
accepted benefits of becoming stronger, fitter, faster and being more able
to control your body weight... You will feel better. After exercise people
report they feel less stressed, less irritated, less depressed and less
anxious. They feel better about themselves, have more energy and
can concentrate better. You will be healthier as exercise reduces the risk of many diseases including obesity, heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and even some cancers. People who exercise regularly also report sleeping better, accompanied with a reduction in the use of sugar, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and other drugs. Exercise also helps to offset the loss of strength and functionality that occurs with ageing. The message is, by exercising you will feel far fitter and look much younger. |
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How much do I have to do? It doesn't take a huge amount of time or discomfort from exercising to get these benefits. The recommendations for improving your general health are for just 30 minutes of physical activity of moderate intensity (such as a brisk walk) on most, if not all, days of the week. For some people just the thought of a 30 minute brisk walk - let alone finding the time - is just too difficult. If this is the case, then consider accumulating this duration of time by shorter bouts of more frequent activity. |
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Small steps to try: Walking the dog Parking your car at the far side of the carpark and walking to your destination Walk to the shops Not using the remote control to change TV channels Try to be more active in your leisure time Washing your car by hand rather than using a car wash Using the stairs rather than taking the lift Spend time in your garden regularly Go for a walk at lunchtime |
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