Did you know that around 12% of all gym sign-ups happen in January? This surge is largely attributed to people making New Year's resolutions to get fit and improve their health. It’s clear that we all know exercise is important, but sometimes it's hard to make it a priority. At OWL Chiropractic, we believe in the importance of movement for a healthy life and want to help you understand why.
Regular physical activity has a wide range of benefits for both your physical and mental health. Here are just a few:
Improved Physical Health: Movement helps to strengthen your muscles and bones, improve your cardiovascular health, and maintain a healthy weight. It can also help to reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers.
Improved Mental Health: Exercise is a great way to boost your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve your sleep. It can also help to improve your cognitive function and memory.
Reduced Pain: Movement can help to reduce pain and stiffness, improve your range of motion, and increase your energy levels. This is especially beneficial for people with conditions such as arthritis and back pain.
Increased Energy Levels: Regular physical activity can help to improve your energy levels and reduce fatigue. This can make it easier to get through your day and enjoy your favorite activities.
Why Is Movement So Complicated?
Navigating the world of fitness and exercise can feel like wading through a dense fog of conflicting information. From deciphering the latest diet trends to understanding macronutrient ratios and calorie counting, nutrition alone presents a significant challenge.
Then there's the overwhelming array of supplements, each promising miraculous results, leaving consumers unsure of what's actually effective and safe. The exercise landscape itself is equally perplexing, with countless workout styles ranging from HIIT and CrossFit to yoga and Pilates, each claiming unique benefits.
Add to this the abundance of conflicting advice on training frequency, intensity, and proper form, and it's easy to see why so many people feel lost and overwhelmed. This confusion can lead to frustration, discouragement, and ultimately, abandonment of fitness goals altogether.
How Much Movement Do You Need?
The amount of movement you need depends on your age, health status, activity levels, and more. Most adults should aim for at least 1-2 hours of moderate to intense aerobic (or cardio) activity per week and at least two muscle-strengthening activities per week.
It's crucial to listen to your body and adjust the intensity and duration of your workouts based on your individual needs and limitations. If you have any underlying health conditions, it's always advisable to consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before starting a new exercise program.
Tips for Staying Active
If you're not sure how to get started with exercise, here are a few tips:
Start slowly and gradually increase your activity level.
Find activities that you enjoy.
Make exercise a part of your daily routine.
Find a workout buddy to help you stay motivated.
Don’t disregard recovery work and rest days.
Get More Information
This blog post only scratches the surface of the vast world of movement and its impact on health. To explore these topics in greater depth, join us at OWL Chiropractic for our next Wake Up To Wellness talk: "The Power of Movement," this Saturday, January 25th, at 10 am. We'll be diving into these subjects and more. The talk is free and open to the public, but space is limited, so be sure to RSVP on our website here.
Looking for a way to get moving in 2025? Join our Couch to 5K Challenge! Whether you want to walk or run a 5k, join our 7-week challenge that concludes at the Spooky Nook Shamrock
Shuffle 5K on March 15th. Participating in the challenge is free and includes a training plan, swag bag, and motivational support throughout the challenge.
Note: participation in the Shamrock Shuffle 5K requires a separate paid registration at the link previously provided.
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