Getting More Exercise May Be No Big Deal

By Tom Herrin

Every time people feel the urge to get more exercise, it does not take as much effort or change in habits as one might think to add it to your lifestyle.  Many of the things they do on a daily basis can be tweaked just enough that they may be able to get some good exercise in by cutting out some of the shortcuts.  Living in this day of modern conveniences has plenty of perks, but it also has some drawbacks as well.  Saving ourselves a little work can cost us a little in our overall health.  The good side of this is that, with a little forethought, we can turn that around and our everyday activities can make up the biggest part of our exercise program.

Moderate Exercise May Be Fine for Health

Many people seem to feel that if they don't get a high level of exercise, they are not doing what they should.  For those who are older, it is believed that about 2 1/2 hours of moderate activity can be plenty.  While this seems like an easy level to achieve, it is thought that fewer than 20 percent of those 65 or older get as much as they need.  This minimum level is likely enough to help prevent high blood pressure, heart disease, and some cancers.  

A Little Exercise May Help Prevent Depression

Many people have probably noticed that when they are active, they feel better emotionally.  There really is something to this.  It has been found that as little as one to two hours of physical activity per week may be enough to stave off depression, cutting the odds of developing it considerably.  This may be pretty mild and is in the category of something is better than nothing. 

Circling the Supermarket May Help

If nothing else, you may be able to accomplish getting an adequate amount of exercise by walking a few laps around the supermarket.  I also try to  park a little farther from the front door so that I can have the opportunity to add a few steps to my trip.  It doesn't take all that much to help.  Something as simple as walking to the corner a time or two per day may be enough to increase your activity level.  You don't have to beat yourself up, just make a few small changes.  I have found that I can do a lot with very few changes in my routine.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Brentwood, Calif.