Its time to get some exercise

Corie Miller, Exercise Physiologist
Ball Memorial Hospital

Q: Are the benefits of exercise really worth the effort?

A: The benefits of exercise are very much worth the effort. Our bodies are meant to be physically active and when we are not our bodies suffer. Getting a moderate amount of exercise such as a minimum of 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week helps to maintain and improve health. A more specific exercise and diet plan is necessary for those of us desiring to lose weight. Structured physical activity such as exercise helps to protect against heart disease and its’ many contributing factors such as: high blood pressure, elevated blood lipids, obesity, abnormal blood glucose to name just a few. Exercise is also ideal for strengthening and maintaining muscle, joint and bone health. Also participating in regular exercise improves mood, alertness, reduces stress and helps you sleep better. The list goes on and on.

Q: Why is National Heart Month important?

A: The American Heart Association (AHA) has designated February as National Heart Month for a few different reasons. First, the AHA desires to make the public aware of heart health and the very real threat of suffering a cardiac related event such as heart attack and stroke. Heart disease is the number one killer of Americans, both men and women. In fact, one in three Americans have one or more types of cardiovascular disease. During this month everyone is encouraged to become more familiar with coronary artery disease and stroke, understand personal risk factors and practice active prevention.  Please refer to the American Heart Association website for more information. www.heart.org             

Q: What resources are available locally to help me keep up with my healthy habits?

A:  If someone is interested in improving their health a good first step would be to contact your physician. It is recommended that anyone wishing to start a new activity or exercise program get clearance from a physician to rule out any health conditions that would make exercise unsafe. Secondly, if anyone wishes to improve diet habits, a physician can also arrange diet counseling with a registered dietician. Lastly, there are several fitness facilities in Delaware County that offer a variety of services, from general fitness equipment use to aerobic and strength training classes and access to recreational clubs for people that share your interest. Professional staff from your physician, to a trainer at the local gym, will be happy to hear you desire to make better life choices.  

Corie Miller is an Exercise Physiologist at Ball Memorial Hospital. For more information, call (765) 751-2529, send an email to info@chsmail.org or log on to www.accesschs.org.

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