Our bodies are designed to move. We evolved in an environment where we were constantly on the go, hunting, gathering, and running from predators. But in today’s world, most of us lead sedentary lifestyles. We sit at work, we sit in traffic, and then we sit at home watching TV or playing video games. At the weekend we often go to restaurants or the cinema, or go and sit and watch a sports match.
The problem with this is that too much sitting is bad for our health. Studies have shown that people who sit for long periods of time are at increased risk for a number of health problems, including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Depression & Anxiety
- Anxiety
- Osteoporosis
Even a small amount of movement can make a big difference. Studies have shown that even just 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week can reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases by up to 30%.
So how can you make sure you’re moving enough? Here are a few tips:
- Get up and move around every 20-30 minutes. If you’re sitting at work, take a walk around the block, do some stretches, or climb some stairs. If you’re working from home, take regular opportunities to get up from your desk and do other things round the house.
- Park further away from your destination and walk or bike the rest of the way, or consider whether you need the car at all, and whether public transport might be healthier in the long run
- Get involved in activities that get you moving, such as gardening, dancing, hiking, or swimming.
- Get outside and into nature whenever possible – the benefits of fresh air and calm tranquil surroundings will add to the benefits you get from moving
Making small changes to your lifestyle can make a big difference in your health. So get moving and start enjoying the benefits of a healthy lifestyle today!
Additional Benefits of Movement
In addition to reducing your risk of chronic diseases, movement can also improve your mental health, energy levels, and sleep quality. It can also help you maintain a healthy weight, improve your posture, and reduce your risk of falls.
If you’re new to exercise, start at a level that is comfortable at first and gradually increase the amount of time you spend moving each day and/or the speed and intensity of your movement. Even a small amount of movement is better than none at all.
And don’t forget to have fun! There are many different ways to move your body, so find something that you enjoy and stick with it.
Here are some additional benefits of movement:
- Stronger bones and muscles. When you move your body, you put stress on your bones and muscles. This stress helps to build them up and make them stronger.
- Improved balance and coordination. Movement helps to improve your balance and coordination. This is important for preventing falls and injuries.
- Reduced stress and anxiety. Movement releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. This can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Improved sleep quality. Movement can help to improve your sleep quality. This is because movement helps to tire you out, making it easier to fall asleep.
So, if you’re looking for ways to improve your health, well-being, and overall quality of life, make sure to move your body regularly, in whatever way makes you happy.
Rachel Law is a personal fitness trainer based in New Malden, Surrey. Qualifications: ActivIQ Level 3 Personal Training; Burrell Education Pregnancy Exercise Prescription; Burrell Education Advanced Pregnancy Wellness Practitioner; Burrell Education Advanced Post Natal Exercise Prescription; Burrell Education 3rd Age Women Optimal Health and Nutrition; Burrell Education Peri Natal Athlete; Burrell Education Pelvic Flow and Freedom; Olympic Weight Lifting; Premier Global Kettlebells; FIE Level Assessment and Mentoring