Recent research published in the December issue of the International Journal of Clinical Practice (IJPC) has found that regular exercise can reduce about two dozen physical and mental health conditions. The study also found that regular exercise can actually slow down how quickly the body ages. That’s great news for all of us regular exercisers and hopefully a push in the right direction for all the non-exercisers out there.
The research review looked at 40 papers published between 2006 and 2010 and summarizes the key findings in all of the studies. Overall, the review concluded that being physically active is the most powerful lifestyle choice any individual can make to improve their health. People who exercise regularly were found to reduce their risk of developing many health conditions including: cancer, heart disease, dementia, stroke, diabetes, depression and high blood pressure.
The review identified recommendations for the general public that could help decrease the risk of these health conditions including:
- Healthy adults aged between 18 and 65 should aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a week, such as 30 minutes of brisk walking, five days a week. And people who undertake more vigorous intensity exercise, such as jogging, should aim for 20 minutes three days a week.
- Healthy adults should aim for two strength-training sessions a week that work with the body's major muscle groups.
- Older people can benefit from exercise that helps to maintain their balance and flexibility.
- People who are physically active should continue to exercise even when they become middle aged or elderly, and those who aren't should increase their physical activity.
- Not smoking and following a healthy diet is also important.
I’ve always been a big proponent of regular exercise. This research is just one more thing I can add to my “speech” when I’m trying to convince people to exercise. Everyone can benefit from regular exercise. Even if you can’t stop smoking, you can still reap some of the benefits of exercise. The body is designed to be used, not to sit at a computer or television all day. My recommendation is to “move it or lose it” and this research really drives that point home. And with the holiday season in full swing, there’s no better time then NOW to get started!
- Jennifer
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Labels: Exercise, Jennifer, Recent Research
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Why wait till the new year to start feeling great! :-)