Lifetime Sports Can Enhance Health
By Tom Herrin
As we get older, many of us tend to lose interest in competitive activities. While we may really get into watching them, we leave it to others to be the ones who are involved. This kind of sedentary participation has its place, but it doesn't actually do much for our own physical condition. The closest it may come is if we attend an event and walk back and forth up a set of bleachers as we go to the concession stand. The fact is that we would likely be much better off if we choose some kind of physical activity to help us focus some of our attention and effort. Lifetime sports can support our health in lots of ways.
We May Achieve Some Good Conditioning Goals
It is easy to read about the levels of activity that can help us to be healthier. Doing something about it can be a challenge. We often hear that we should have a set amount of activity each day in order to protect our overall health. A lifetime sport may be the right ticket. Setting goals is an important part of getting there. One of the simplest is to strive for 30 minutes per day. Doing this five days per week can be realistic and yet give us some time off. It can raise our pulse rate just enough to do a good job.
What If I Am Not a Runner
As we age, participating in a sport that requires some kind of intense level of participation is not necessary. The fact that we are able to increase the rate at which our heart beats is enough to make a difference. As we do this with some kind of regularity, we will notice the improvement relatively soon. Beginning slowly but steady is usually the key. These activities can be simple. The important thing is for them to be on some kind of schedule so that we can build up as time goes on.
The List Is Wide Open
Any kind of lifetime sport just needs to help us to break the routine of being inactive. Some of these activities can be done by only walking while others may be a little more active. The fact that it is lifetime means that it is something that we can probably do for just that, the rest of our lives. Many people choose swimming as water can support our weight while allowing us to move. Others prefer golf where walking is a big part. A few others are playing tennis, riding a bicycle, or simply walking a track with friends. If we do any of it as part of some kind of a competition, we tend to enjoy the challenge a little more.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Huntersville, N.C.