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Contributing Writer
Kendra Norman-Bellamy
The Benefits of Exercise
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If procrastination could burn calories, most of America would be fit. Study after study from reliable sources such as the Mayo Clinic and the American Public Health Association has shown the benefits of a proper diet and regular exercise, but regardless of the health warnings, we just can’t seem to get it together. We are less healthier now than we’ve been at any time in history. It’s a sad truth. Although the United States is among the most informed and resourceful countries in the world, we are still among the most obese and unhealthy. While people in other nations are dying because they do not have the luxury of health clubs or the fertile grounds that yield fresh vegetables and fruit, Americans are choosing to die in spite of having all those things. And the largest group in this dying breed is Blacks. Why is it that so many people don’t have the motivation to exercise or the self-control to refuse the overindulgence of unhealthy fats, sugars and simple carbohydrates and gravitate towards foods that offer more health benefits? It’s an age old question that seems to have no specific answer. As health professionals, all we can do is inform and demonstrate, but it is up to every individual to follow through and make the choice of a healthier lifestyle. Many of the everyday ailments and aches that we suffer can be curved or halted altogether with just a few changes in our daily living. And many of the major illnesses and diseases that overtake us wouldn’t, if we took better care of ourselves. Some of the benefits of exercise
are: more restful sleep, improved body composition, increased
energy, better coordination and balance, increased memory, longer
life expectancy, weight management and control and a better overall
quality of life. Exercise can even prevent or delay serious illnesses
such as coronary artery disease, stroke, osteoporosis, heart disease,
high blood pressure, some forms of cancer, and Many times, what drains us before we ever get started is the thought of how taxing and tiring exercise can be. For those who are not accustomed to intense exercise, I recommend that you start with a daily brisk walk. As little as thirty minutes per day can noticeably increase your fitness level. Once you have mastered thirty minutes, increase your routine in five minute intervals per week, until you have reached the one-hour mark. It will take a conscious effort on your part in order to keep at it, but you’ll be both surprised and pleased at how good you will look and feel. Other forms of exercise that you may include as you increase your routine are: strength training (using three to eight pound hand weights - men may want to use heavier weights…great for toning); stretching exercises (such as yoga or Pilates…increases flexibility); and other aerobic exercises (such as bike riding, running, jogging, dancing, boxing, etc….strengthens the heart and increases stamina and endurance). The sooner you get started, the
quicker you will be on the road to a healthier, happier YOU! Take
care of yourself so no one else will have to.
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