Let's Get Active

Physical Wellness

Physical Wellness is the ability to apply your knowledge, motivation, commitment, behavior, self-management, attitude, and skills toward achieving personal fitness and health goals. Balancing nutritional practices, getting regular exercise and adequate sleep, and paying attention to the warning signs and symptoms of your body are all important to physical wellness.

Current Physical Activity Recommendations

A group of experts brought together by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has reviewed the pertinent scientific evidence and formulated the following recommendations.

Every American adult should accumulate 30 minutes or more of moderate-intensity physical activity over the course of most days of the week. Incorporating more activity in to your daily routine is an effective way to improve health. Activities that can contribute to the 30 minute total include walking up stairs (instead of taking the elevator), gardening, mowing the grass, gathering materials for lei making, playing with your children, walking the dog, walking all or part of the way to work, post office and store.

By putting together shorter amounts of moderate-intensity exercise (mentioned above) throughout the day, totaling a minimum of 30 minutes on most, preferably all days, you can achieve many health benefits.

 

The 30 minutes activity does not need to be continuous, but can be added up over the entire day. The activity need not be boring, it can be achieved as part of work, social or community life, and will ultimately result in better health.

Benefits of Regular Physical Activity

Helps build and maintain healthy bones and muscles

Helps control weight, build lean muscle, and reduce fat

Reduces feelings of depression/anxiety and promotes psychological well-being

It is advised to seek medical advice before commencing an exercise program, if you have been inactive for a long period of time or have health conditions which may affect the amount and type of activity you do. Warming up, cooling down and stretching are also recommended to prevent injury and ensure you get the most from your workout.