Cathal BarryBeing sedentary most of the day isn’t going to do your physique any favours
If you're reading this, chances are youíre relaxing while perched in a roomy armchair or stretched out comfortably on the couch.
It goes without saying that being sedentary most of the day isn't going to do your physique any favours, even if you exercise regularly.
Although exercise rates are increasing somewhat, people are moving less overall, which has an enormously negative impact on metabolism. Fewer calories get burned daily, blood sugar and insulin health are compromised and muscle building and tissue repair is reduced.
As you age, it's important to protect your bones, joints and muscles. Not only do they support your body and help you move, but keeping bones, joints and muscles healthy can help ensure that youíre able to do your daily activities and be physically active.
Bone density
Research shows that doing aerobic, muscle-strengthening and bone-strengthening physical activity of at least a moderately-intense level can slow the loss of bone density that comes with age.
Whether you get yourself in gear by taking frequent active breaks at work, tracking your daily steps with a pedometer, or even taking drastic steps like throwing out your TV (not recommended!), it's essential that you commit to being more active throughout the day.
Fitness is simple, but it is not easy. It takes patience, commitment and dedication to make it into a lifestyle regardless of whether you feel like it or not.
Becoming active will dramatically increase the quality of your life. Staying in shape reduces your risks of health problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, sleep apnoea and even depression. Being active also gives you the opportunity to try new activities and socialise with different groups of people.
When it comes to exercise, results are very important. However, people often get so bogged down in seeing results that they lose track of their original goals, or forget to set any at all. Goal setting should always come first. Whatever those goals may be, ensure that they are realistic and achievable.
Once the goals have been set, donít rush them. Take your first steps to fitness slowly. Even the smallest steps can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Here are a few ways to get moving:
* Walk instead of taking the car whenever possible.
* Take the stairs instead of the escalator or lift.
* Go for a brisk walk after dinner.
* Try jogging for half an hour instead of watching TV.
* Get off the bus a stop earlier.
* Park further away from the shops.
* Get a dog that requires plenty of exercise
* Go up hills instead of around them
Remember, everyone can gain the health benefits of physical activity ñ age, shape or size do not matter. Just get up and give it a go!