So many of us associate regular and structured physical
activity and/or exercise with weight loss.
Why is this? For so long now
society has placed images into our brains by way of media. “Workout to lose weight!”, “Lose weight in 21
days with this workout!”, “In just 10 days you can have abs of steel through
this workout!” We have heard it all.
The truth is, the focus of exercise or increased physical
activity should be on the health benefits and living longer, better quality
lives. Not only is there strong evidence
that regular physical activity can help to manage most chronic conditions such
as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease,
high cholesterol, high blood pressure
and some cancers, but it can also
help prevent them as well.
“People who are active and fit, live longer, healthier
lives” ~ Dr. Robert Sallis
The time has come to change the focus on the importance of
increasing our daily physical activity.
Let’s start with changing the idea of “if I work out more or walk more
often I will lose weight.” Instead, think
“if I walk regularly at a brisk pace for 30 minutes, gradually working up to 5
days per week, then my heart will work more efficiently, my energy level will
improve and I will start to feel better overall.”
Of course starting
off with what you are able to tolerate is important. If walking for 5 or 10
minutes is your limit now, start there and set monthly goals to increase
gradually over time.
When it comes to health, activity level is vital. Yes, it would be a bonus if
some weight loss was to occur, but let’s remember that these health benefits,
just to name a few, will happen overtime with regular and consistent activity, regardless
of weight loss:
- Improved circulation
- Improved cardiovascular fitness
- Increased insulin sensitivity
- Increased HDL (good cholesterol)
- Increased energy level
- Improved quality of life
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Reduced blood pressure
- Reduced risk of chronic conditions
- Decreased cognitive decline
Just like prescribed medicine, physical activity should be thought of as a prescription to take in order to be effective.
Corinne Cutler BPE, CSEP
Certified Exercise Physiologist
Leduc Beaumont Devon Primary Care Network
