Make Exercise A Priority

by Dr. Brett L. Lukert, DC

October is normally the time of year I encourage people to take advantage of the beautiful fall weather by exercising outdoors. This is usually when we can enjoy refreshing sunny days, low humidity, and cool but comfortable temperatures.

Nevertheless, even if this stretch of dreary, rainy days continues, one of the many great aspects about exercise is that it can be done year round, in any conditions, and the benefits are amazing! Exercise is one of the few things in life that we can truly say is beneficial to everyone and can dramatically improve our health…IF we will just do it. Every day I am privileged to see the drastic differences in people who are making regular exercise a priority in their life.

Proven health benefits of exercise include reduced risk of many serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, and stroke. Exercise helps reduce cholesterol, blood pressure and body fat, which are major risk factors in most types of disease.

Exercise improves the strength, balance, and function in our musculoskeletal system, which in turn reduces the prevalence of back pain and injuries. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Exercise enhances sleep, facilitates digestion and boosts the immune system.

Do you get the point? It is no wonder that the World Health Organization stated that a sedentary life is more harmful than smoking.

Exercise plans will vary for everyone depending on the individual level of fitness but can be easily customized and implemented. As a general rule of thumb, aerobic exercise (walking, jogging, biking, swimming, aerobics) should be performed 3-4 times a week, and resistive training (lifting weights) should be done 2-3 times a week.

Over time, this combination will efficiently replace fat tissue with lean muscle mass and prevent muscle atrophy as we age. We will also gain all of the health benefits of exercise mentioned above.

When beginning an exercise plan, always remember to start slow (no more than 20 minutes) the first few weeks. Workouts can be increased gradually as the body adapts to these new changes. Lastly, always consult with your doctor regarding specific types of exercise that are appropriate for you.

Deciding to make a commitment to regular exercise will be one of the best, healthiest life-long investments you can make. Rain or shine, make time to be healthy, live healthy and stay healthy!