Just Move It
When it comes to exercise, every little effort counts, the advantages of staying active are virtually boundless.
150 Minutes Per Week. To establish a healthy foundation, the Ministry of Health recommends engaging in 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on 5 days or more per week and incorporate 2 strength training sessions into your routine. Yet, for many, these goals remain elusive.
A significant portion of adults in NZ fall short of these exercise and strength training targets.
A notable percentage of Kiwis lead sedentary lives, with little to no physical activity outside of work-related tasks.
Across affluent nations, a substantial portion of future healthcare expenditures will be dedicated to treating conditions linked to inactivity. Complicating matters; pharmaceutical companies rush to market "miracle" weight loss solutions, and unfortunately a significant portion of Kiwi adults express interest in quick fixes.
Simpler Science. While the hunt for a magic remedy continues, the answer may be simpler than we think. Renowned longevity expert Dr. Peter Attia believes exercise is the "most potent drug" for enhancing health and extending lifespan.
In the midst of marketing complexities, fitness brands sometimes overlook the fact that various forms of physical activity have proven effective in warding off chronic ailments such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, as well as mental health challenges like depression, Alzheimer's, and more.
Tiny Doses of Movement
Despite the many benefits, time constraints often hinder exercise. However, it's becoming evident that even short bursts of physical activity can yield significant benefits.
Just a few minutes of vigorous daily activities, like climbing stairs or brisk walking, can reduce the risk of cancer.
Dedicating time each week to strength training has been associated with lowered mortality rates, particularly related to heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Engaging in 20 minutes of physical activity has shown to significantly reduce the risk of depression, surpassing the efficacy of leading antidepressants.
Imagine if employers encouraged their employees to squeeze in an extra short walk daily; this could potentially boost the global economy through increased productivity and life expectancy.
Yearning for Quick Outcomes. With limited time and attention, many of you are seeking concise workouts that deliver speedy results - something a great personal training program or working with a coach can deliver each and every time.
Who doesn’t love takeaways: Whether it's increasing daily movement, enjoying quick exercise breaks, or promoting physical activity in any form, any effort to move is a step in the right direction.
In the words of Dr. Daniel Lieberman, "Any movement is better than none, more is usually better, and it is never too late to start."
