Alyssa Roberts webAre you thinking about getting healthier and in shape?  The amount of weekly exercise should be based off of individual goals. Setting goals plays a major key to weight loss and/or muscle gain. One Men’s Health article states, “When training for fat loss and cutting, focus on doing 3 to 4 workouts per week.” Working out with a partner or attending group classes can also create a more enjoyable exercise regime.

Living an active lifestyle, as well as eating a nutritious diet, is a key contributor to a longer and healthier life. Orthopedic surgeon Adam Bright says, “Weight-bearing, upright exercise that works the large muscles of the legs is the most important, especially for women, who are at higher risk of osteoporosis,” While focusing on this kind of exercise, the body will use more energy in order to stabilize itself and will therefore burn Planksmore calories.  A simple ab exercise that can be done at home is the plank position. Start out in a push up position; carefully bend your elbows and lay both arms down making your spine align with your body. While in this position contract your abs and make sure your butt is low. Hold this position for a minute. Repeat three times and increase the amount of time as you get more comfortable with the exercise.

In addition to improving your appearance and decreasing your risk of disease, exercise can also decrease your stress levels, leading to a happier outlook and positive attitude.  Increased exercise has been shown to lower stress while working out, and for many hours afterwards.   Ironically, stressed people may begin to skip workouts that will potentially decrease the stress they are feeling.  It is well-known that prolonged periods of stress have been linked to increased likely hood of heart attack, ulcers, and stroke – so even if you are feeling crunched for time, it is still worthwhile to go to the gym, take a walk by the beach, or go to a hot yoga class.

In addition to exercise, eating a nutritious diet will dramatically improve your mental and physical health. Cardiothoracic surgeon Johnathan Hoffberger believes that diet is a key element to living a healthy lifestyle. He believes that ninety percent of living a healthy lifestyle is linked to a person’s diet. While it may be easy to get caught up in a hectic schedule, try to not forget to focus on living a proactive, balanced lifestyle. The results of consistently exercising and eating healthy will be a benefit to your health not only today, but for years to come.

References:

http://health.heraldtribune.com/2016/04/19/doctors-who-take-their-own-advice/

http://www.mensfitness.com/training/pro-tips/question-week-how-much-workout

 

The information provided is for general interest only and should not be misconstrued as a diagnosis, prognosis or treatment recommendation. This information does not in any way constitute the practice of medicine, or any other health care profession. Readers are directed to consult their health care provider regarding their specific health situation. Marque Medical is not liable for any action taken by a reader based upon this information.