With the Internet and video games taking entertainment to sedentary levels we couldn’t imagine, it is more important than ever to promote maintaining physical fitness throughout Maryland and everywhere else.
Being active is the only way to keep the body healthy and functioning. And physical well being is critical to mental well being. When you feel good, your head is clear and focused. An exercise regiment enhances the performance of the lungs and heart, burns excess calories, keeps weight under control and ensures muscles stay strong and capable. It increases joint flexibility. Staying fit also improves endurance, allowing the body to keep moving where the less fit would tire out.
The leading cause of death in America is heart disease. With a strong heart, you minimize the possibility you’ll ever suffer a stroke or fall victim to colon cancer. It decreases the chance you’ll ever suffer high blood pressure or diabetes. People in good shape spend less time needing medical attention. Physical fitness has been linked to happiness as well as lower levels of stress, anxiety and depression.
Unfortunately, the majority of us are not living a healthy lifestyle. Many believe the only real way to stay fit is through long, extended periods of sweat inducing activity. We can’t find time to lift weights or hit the treadmill. Ironically, we spend more time doing things that offer no physical advantages to our lives.
Looking to maintain physical fitness does not necessarily require hard work. Regular walks or swims can be beneficial. Individuals that bike or engage in organized sports are contributing to their fitness. Of course, they are hopefully balancing that out with their diet. Playing softball on Sunday is defeated if the rest of the week is spent eating hamburgers and drinking beer.
Physical fitness should be a part of everyone’s life, regardless of age or health from Annapolis to Hong Kong. Forms of exercise are most important as we age, when our bodies begin to naturally break down. Try to engage in 20 to 30 minutes of physical activity at least three times a week. You will curtail health issues and prepare yourself for a long, healthy life.
