“Lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being, while movement and methodical physical exercise save it and preserve it.” –Plato
“Exercise ferments the humors, casts them into their proper channels, throws off redundancies, and helps nature in those secret distributions, without which the body cannot subsist in its vigor, nor the soul act with cheerfulness.” –Joseph Addison
“Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity.” –John. F. Kennedy
By now you should know: Regular exercise is the single healthiest habit you can have. Just 30 minutes (or more) per day will boost your health, strengthen your immunity to disease, lift your spirits, and improve your quality of life enormously.
Exercise has tremendous physical benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, arthritis, and other diseases; improved muscle and bone strength; increased energy; better sexual functioning; and better sleep. Exercise also helps to control, or even prevent, conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Psychological benefits of exercise include increased self-esteem; reduced stress and anxiety; alleviation of depression; and enhanced memory and cognitive functioning.
Also, people who exercise live longer.
Even if you are not in good shape, or you think you are too old to start exercising, you can exercise. Start slow and know that even a little bit counts.
If the thought of exercise strikes you as unpleasant, you probably have not exercised for a while. Exercising makes you feel good. It can be one of life’s most sublime pleasures!
The Types of Exercises
Aerobic exercise is the largest exercise category, and it is the type of exercise we normally think of first. It is any activity that involves motion, such as running, walking, biking, swimming, or playing sports. Aerobic exercise is extremely good for the heart and the immune system, as well as for psychological well-being.
Stretching exercises, including yoga and other types of stretches, are essential for keeping the body limber and flexible. Stretching helps keep the body comfortable, free of injuries, aches and pains.
Strength exercises build muscles and help maintain bone density. They are particularly important for older people, because our muscles start to atrophy during middle age, unless we exercise them. Strength exercises include pushups, pull-ups, and working with weights.
About Jim Comstock: As director of Business Development and Community Relations for Daly City’s Seton Medical Center, as well as member of the board of directors of the Daly City-Colma Chamber of Commerce, Jim is actively engaged in socio-civic, healthcare and education projects, especially including those impacting Filipino communities. He holds a master’s degree in Education. Jim believes that when people are given accurate information, they will make the right decisions
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