Let us count the ways

Heart disease is the leading cause of death among men and women in the United States. People who are not physically active develop coronary artery disease at twice the frequency over those who are active. Moderate daily physical activity can substantially reduce the risk of developing or dying from cardiovascular disease. 

Daily physical activity helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and reduce obesity. Being active can help improve symptoms from anxiety and depression. Exercise, activity and fitness can even help the symptoms of arthritis. As many already know, aerobic activity of any type is outstanding for weight loss and weight maintainence. This makes fitness and physical activity a key part of treatment for diabetes. 

Several studies confirm that aerobic activity and strength training produce dramatic improvements in glucose control for diabetes, with results comparable to diabetes medication.

Strength training increases bone density and reduces the risk of fracture, making it a great help prevent or retard osteoporosis . A recent study in New Zealand among older women showed a 40% reduction in falls from a simple strength and balance program.

Heart disease. Cancer. Osteoporosis. Diabetes. Anxiety. Depression. Sleep problems. Arthritis. Back pain. Get the picture?

How much do you need?

• Significant health benefits can be obtained by including a moderate amount of physical activity (30 minutes of brisk walking or raking leaves, 15 minutes of running, 45 minutes of playing volleyball).
• Additional health benefits can be gained through greater amounts of physical activity.
• Thirty to sixty minutes of activity broken into smaller segments of 10 or 15 minutes throughout the day has significant health benefits.