We are all aware of the importance of living well. None of us could claim that if only we had known that being physically active, eating well and managing stress were good for us, then, we would have lived our lives totally differently.
Unfortunately, as familiar as we are with these fundamental health principles, few of us, including myself, are effective at implementing them. Only 3 percent of Americans meet all four of these healthy lifestyle characteristics — being a nonsmoker, maintaining a healthy weight (BMI of 18.5 – 25), eating four servings of fruits and vegetables per day and being regularly physically active.
For most of us, a large gap exists between what we know and what we do.
When it comes to physical activity, one possible way to narrow that gap is to realize just how little activity it actually takes to achieve significant health benefits. You don’t have to reach your goals in a month, or two, or six. Just get started.
The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans suggest you progress to accumulating 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity, such as running several times per week in 10-minute sessions or longer.
Remember, some physical activity is better than none. People who participate in any amount of regular physical activity gain health benefits.
In population studies, individuals who are physically active on a regular basis have about half of the risk of developing or dying from heart disease, the nation’s current leading cause of death. Regular aerobic activity increases our ability to work or play harder and tire less readily. Cardio’s benefits aren’t limited to health and physical fitness, either. It also improves mood and cognitive capability.
Do you need more motivation to move? You can find support and training partners by preparing for one of several upcoming campus-sponsored events. Events include the OwL Ride, the Corporate Cycling Challenge and the Corporate Cup.
For more information on registering for these events through UNMC, contact Peter Pellerito at the Center for Health Living at 402-559-5253.