Get Up & Get Active
Written By: Tiffany Bustamante
Spending time at home is something we all looked forward to in the midst of our hectic and busy lives. Yet, I believe I can speak for all of us when I say we never expected this much time at home. Rest is a good thing, it’s a way our bodies repair themselves. But can too much rest be a bad thing? The answer’s yes. It is recommended that adults should do at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of exercise a week. According to the USDA, “Being active 5 or more hours each week can provide even more health benefits.” It would make sense that more free time would provide more time to be active, but for some reason, most people are still struggling to start. More often than not, the idea of being active and working out intimidates people to the point where they rather not be active at all, or delay their start time, which therefore delays their goals. Other times they set goals so large that they don’t even know where to begin.
But being active is more than just a physical goal. Being active is good for your mental health. An article posted by the NBCI supports this claim, “Exercise improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and negative mood and by improving self-esteem and cognitive function.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1470658/
With all the time we spend at home now, both our mental and physical health should be our priority. Even with limited resources like our gyms being closed, there is still so much that can be done to bring some activity into your life. Daily walks or runs could be a great start as it gradually builds up your stamina. Our personal trainers have released many at-home workouts that you can try at your own pace.
When working out for more than one reason, like health-wise rather than just physical, there’s more of a chance you’ll stick it out and make it part of your lifestyle. And when it becomes part of your lifestyle, you learn to appreciate the journey.
It’s time to get up and get active. Your challenge for this week is to walk around your block for 30 min. And if this has already been part of your daily routine, then consider stepping it up a notch and jog instead of walk. *
Even though the situation may not seem ideal, all in all, we have the ability to alter our perspectives in a more positive light. That being said, let’s get up, get active and come out of this pandemic stronger.
Spa 23 Strong!
*Disclaimer!
I am not a licensed doctor or personal trainer. If you have heart-issues or other underlying health issues, consult your doctor first.