OK. You know how some movies show you the ending first and then go backwards and tell you the story?  Well, here’s the punch line to this article—

Physical activity
(that’s code for exercise)
is the single best predictor of longevity
(that’s how long you live)! 

You might think that—
not smoking, eating a healthy diet, or being the proper weight would be the deciding factors, but not so!

Studies are revealing some surprises in regard to the importance of being fit (physically active).  For instance, did you know that studies show that someone with high cholesterol who is physically active has a lower risk of dying than a person who has a normal cholesterol level but is not physically active?  That a smoker who exercises is healthier than a nonsmoker who doesn’t exercise?  And my personal favorite – that someone who’s overweight but active can actually be healthier than someone who’s thin but inactive? (If you can’t get skinny, get fit!)  (JAMA, Vol. 276, No. 3, pp.205-210, 1996) 

We’re getting closer to that time of year when being outside is more desirable.  Being physically active takes many forms, but in addition to being necessary for our health, it should also be fun!

I like to walk.  And I love to hike!  I live close to the Appalachian Trail and I’d rather be there than just about anywhere!  It may be a bit of a workout, but I think it’s fun … and that makes all the difference!  You’ve got to find what’s “fun” for you and, like the Nike commercial made famous, … just do it!

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) recommends that we get 30 minutes of moderate (or more) exercise on most days of the week.  Getting exercise EVERY day of the week’s an even better idea. (If weight loss is your goal, then 60 minutes or more per day is necessary.)  Don’t overdo it.  You don’t want to do any damage!  (Check with your doctor if you have any reason for concern.)  But don’t go at it so casually that you don’t get any benefit from it.  (A good rule of thumb is to exercise at a level that elevates your heart rate a bit and causes you to sweat.)

As we age, good health means more to us than it may have when we were younger.  But the honest truth is that the better our habits at any age, the better our quality of life!

Book Recommendations:
Dynamic Living, Hans Diehl/Aileen Ludington
The Creation Health Breakthrough, Monica Reed
Fit After 40, Coach Don Nava

Quotes:
“Physical fitness is the basis for all other forms of excellence.”  John F. Kennedy

“The Surgeon General’s report summarizing research on physical activity and health states that physical activity protects against heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, obesity, osteoporosis, several cancers, and diabetes.  It also combats stress, depression, fatigue, and helps you feel better about yourself, gives you more energy, and simply makes you feel good.”

No time to exercise?
Adopt an active lifestyle instead…   Wellsource - Making Healthy Choices.