My main question for you today is: what makes you MOVE?
Did you know that the world’s major health organizations recommend that each of us engage in 300 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity per week? That’s approximately 45 minutes per day!
The recommendation minimum is of 150 minutes per week for cardiovascular and muscular fitness, bone health, and to reduce the risk of disease and depression. However, increased time is required for additional health benefits.
When I think about fulfilling those guidelines and how I can help more people achieve that, I think about how different we all are and how different things motivate us!
In a recent conversation I had with a woman at the gym, she said: “You know, sometimes I can be here for an hour and a half and feel like I didn’t accomplish much, but if I take even a 45 minute class, I know and feel that I got such a great workout!” This is a great self-realization and awareness to have!
So much about our health and fitness journeys are about finding what works for US!
If you like to be on your own doing your thing, go for it. If you like having a partner to push you, find that. If you want a plan to follow, get that. If you need visuals with video instructions, look for that. If you need a group setting or classes, then do that!
Do you like going for runs? Walking? Dancing? Swimming? Lifting weights? Bike riding? Playing a sport? Rock climbing?
Do you need something that involves your kids like a family walk/bike ride/dance party? Do you need to set an alarm for before your kids wake up (or after they go to bed) to have your alone exercise time? Do you have financial limitations for a gym membership so YouTube videos become your go-to option for workouts?
There are so many options and alternatives and at this day and age, with the access we have to things, our typical excuses are becoming less and less valid.
The most important factor is your commitment. Once that’s out of the way, the possibilities are endless! Remember this is for you AND for your family, since you being healthy is beneficial for everyone around you!
And always look for new things to try! You won’t know if you like it or it happens to work best for you for whatever reason until you try it. Whether it’s getting a personal trainer (even if it’s just to get going and learn some things before you go on your own!) or joining a dance studio/sports league or finding a gym with a pool for swimming… whatever it is that gets you to MOVE in a fun and satisfying way!
As the Dove chocolate I just ate reminded me at this exact moment: “You are never too old, and it is never too late.”
If you think your child is in need of occupational, physical, or speech therapy call us today to set up a FREE screening at 586-323-2957!
Written by: Luiza LeMerise, PT DPT OMPT
