A strenuous hike or a five-kilometre run. An aerobics class, or a vigorous game of squash. We all know activities like these are great for our health. So why is it that only one in five of us gets enough exercise? Research has discovered just how beneficial it is for our bodies to work up a sweat. In fact, one in eight people dies earlier than they should because they aren't physically active enough. Isn't that reason enough to get serious about exercise?

Having an active lifestyle offers amazing benefits. It helps prevent serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, certain types of diabetes, osteoporosis (a weakening of the bones in older people) as well as colon and breast cancer. It also fights obesity, osteoarthritis, depression, anxiety, and maybe prostate cancer. On top of that, it reduces fatigue, lessens muscle tension, and improves stamina. What's more, being active lessens your chances of catching colds, helps you sleep better, improves your immune function and reduces the effects of stress.

What do we mean by physical activity? Basically anything that requires plenty of energy. Walking, biking, manual labour, exercise classes and active sports all qualify. The best exercise is the kind that leaves you breathless and sweaty. If your schedule is already packed, note that even moderately energetic activities such as brisk walking, gardening, raking leaves, home repairs and painting, and lawn mowing not on a tractor are better than nothing.

How much? How often?

A little exercise is good, but more is better. Try to be moderately active 30 to 60 minutes most days of the week every day if you can. For most healthy adults, that means a brisk two-mile walk. Remember, you don't have to exercise for a full 30 minutes all at one time. It's fine to split it up. Combining a walk to the store, some gardening, and a short bike ride can easily add up to 30 minutes or more. If you're starting from scratch, work up gradually to the recommended 30 minutes a day. Exercising more vigorously, or for longer, will lower your chances of future disease even more.

Most healthy adults don't need to see their doctors before starting a moderate physical activity program. Ask at your local community or fitness centre for the " PAR-Q " questionnaire, which identifies anyone under 69 years of age who should first talk to their doctor. If you've passed your 69th birthday, it's a good idea to see your doctor. It's never too late to start being more active, and exercise will improve your strength, balance, sleep and help you live longer.

 So, now that the days are longer, how about a walk this evening? 

Preparation and Copyright © by Practical Touch Publications Incorporated Well Informed - July/August 1999