Health and fitness are two terms that many people confuse. The two are very different and can have very different outcomes depending on the person.
The term “health” is used by the World Health Organization to describe a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. It is a lifelong pursuit that encompasses the prevention of chronic diseases and disabilities, maintaining a high quality of life, and avoiding premature death.
There are multiple benefits that come with being physically fit including increased energy levels, improved mood and mental health, a stronger immune system, and lower risk of serious diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Getting the recommended amount of exercise per day is key to staying healthy. In fact, doing just 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity a week can reduce your risk of mortality by 19 percent.
It is important to incorporate cardiovascular exercises into your routine, along with strength training. Doing so can strengthen your bones, reduce your cholesterol and blood sugar levels, improve bowel function, boost your sex life, and reduce your risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Doing this in conjunction with healthy eating and drinking can help you maintain a healthy weight, increase your energy levels, and improve the way you feel throughout the day.
In addition, doing this can also help you sleep better and control your stress levels, which are both vital to a healthy lifestyle.
There is a wealth of scientific evidence that supports the link between physical activity and health. For example, a recent study found that people who participated in a program that boosted their fitness levels increased the amount of physical activity they did every week by about 40 percent. They also ate healthier foods, got more sleep and cut back on alcohol and smoking.
While some may be surprised by the results, this is actually an excellent outcome for anyone looking to improve their overall health and well-being. It is important to remember that it takes a lot of consistent effort to achieve these goals, so be patient and be sure to reward yourself for achieving your goals.
Count all your Activities as Exercising
There are plenty of things you can do in your everyday life that you could also count as exercise, like playing with the kids in the backyard, cleaning the house, doing yard work, and dancing in your kitchen. Just keep in mind that you need to do a little bit each day to make this a habit and be sure to schedule it for a time when you can do it.
Do a Combination of Exercises
Practicing exercises that strengthen the whole body and balance the entire system can be the best option for improving your health. These include exercises that involve all major muscle groups such as the legs, hips, back, chest, abdomen, shoulders, and arms.
It is also a good idea to practice flexibility exercises that stretch your muscles and joints. Doing so can improve your range of motion and relieve aches and pains in the long run.