During the last summer Olympics my family was glued to the TV, watching some of the world’s best athletes do the almost impossible. It’s obvious that they are in good physical shape because of their hours of physical activity, and not one that participated in aerobic-type sports could be considered overweight. So it’s clear that physical activity has benefits for elite athletes, but does it have benefits for the average person, like me who can only manage a few minutes each day? The answer to that question is a resounding yes! Guidelines for Americans suggest that just 150 minutes of moderate to intense aerobic activity each week with some strengthening activities (lifting weights, sit-ups, etc.) can have significant health benefits. These include lowering the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes; strengthening bones, and muscles; weight reduction and maintenance and enhancing mood.
Even walking, the safest, simplest and least expensive activity, has benefit. Our concern in public health is accessibility – some do not have safe places in their neighborhoods to walk. It’s an ongoing area of advocacy for public health practitioners, but until those neighborhood problems get resolved, there are options. Parks, trails or even walking in malls or the parking lot at work are alternatives if walking in one’s neighborhood is not safe. For those concerned with public health, the focus is a reduction in chronic diseases and the associated costs. But there are clearly benefits to a brisk walk, beyond the physical health benefits, especially if shared with a companion or while listening to some good music.
I know well the benefits of regular physical activity, but like most I struggle with making it a routine part of my very busy day. So I am inspired by our Olympic athletes to be active. The challenge is to make it a habit, a regular part of each day. I just need to do it, and do it every day until it becomes a routine, and not just when I watch the summer Olympics every 4 years. Wish me luck.
