It's Time to Become More Active, So Let's Get Started
By Stephen R. Farris
According to researchers, about 97 percent of Americans do not have, or participate, in an active lifestyle. The factors could be a number of things, such as spending a lot of time at work, or commuting to and from work, watching too much television, playing games or socializing with your smartphone, etc., as the list could go on and on.
By not being active, you entertain the chances of developing health conditions that could lead to heart disease, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer.
However, there are things you can do to change that and become more active on a daily basis.
- Give your heart a workout
- Maintain strength
- Maintain a healthy weight
These are three essential ingredients for beginning a healthier, more active lifestyle.
It doesn't take much to get started. One of the first objectives should be to set some realistic goals. From there, you might consider a gym membership -- if your budget allows -- as many offer beginner classes in aerobics, swimming, lifting weights, and other activities to help you gradually work your way up to more rigorous exercises.
If you're like me, you might prefer the quiet and comfort of your home or apartment. You can always take at least 15 to 20 minutes a day and walk around a few blocks in the neighborhood. Since most households have the latest in entertainment technology, there are several DVD exercise videos on the market that you can purchase.
Here's a few extra tips to help get you started:
- Take it slow
- Get in your 30 (30 minutes of exercise daily, which can be broken up in 10- or 15-minute increments)
- Work your muscles
- Mix it up (incorporate different exercises into your routine)
- Mind your money
- Stretch
The last tip -- stretching -- is important as you don't want to injure a muscle or pull a ligament, which both can set your exercise goals back or even discourage you from moving forward.
If you have any questions concerning exercise, nutrition, or your overall health, consult with your local chiropractor to hear some of the tips and suggestions they can offer to help get your started on a more active, healthy lifestyle that you are seeking.
And when you're feeling pain in your back, neck, or joints, your local chiropractor can help you get relief from those too.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Hixson, Tenn.