Today, I'm excited for my very first blog post under the banner of "Resolve Fitness."
And what riveting topic am I starting with, you might ask? Well, it's none other than the concept that our bodies, dear friends, are tailor-made for motion.
In a world dominated by screens and seats, let's not forget an essential truth: our bodies are designed for movement. Movement isn't merely a leisure activity, or a pathway to aesthetic aspirations; it's a fundamental requirement for our bodies to function at their best. Today, I'm here to shed light on the broader impact of movement and to hopefully inspire you to make a conscious effort to embrace a more active lifestyle.
The Stillness Epidemic
Picture this: the average adult finds themselves sitting, for 7 to 9 hours each day. The modern life has led to increasingly sedentary habits, from long hours at our desks to leisurely Netflix marathons. This eye-opening statistic holds significant health implications, including a heightened risk of numerous health conditions including diabetes, heart disease, depression/anxiety and of course musculoskeletal discomfort and pain. The toll of extended sitting on our health is undeniable.
Redefining the Approach
Frequently, recommendations around physical activity can feel intimidating and discouraging. Many countries (including ours!) offer rigid exercise guidelines—specific minutes per week, designated intensity levels, and more. Research over the past few years actually reveals that these guidelines can overwhelm people and even drive them to give up on movement altogether. This is where the "Move More, Sit Less" philosophy comes into play. I champion this refreshing approach that welcomes any form of movement, regardless of the minutes tallied. It's a reminder that any movement, no matter how small, is (much) better than no movement at all.
Here are some ways that I implement this concept in my own life, that may apply to yours.
Park further away
Let me ask you this. . . when you go somewhere - where do you park? My guess is that your answer is "as close to the entrance as possible". This is one really simple way to get more steps in - they'll add up!
Walking Conversations
Meetings, catch-ups with friends, even those internal conversations - do them on your feet! Great for movement, and apparently, for creativity too.
Zoom on your feet
I'm lucky enough to have a sit/stand desk. I also have a calendar full of zoom meetings. Whenever I click on zoom, my desk goes into standing.
Trade TV for Podcasts
I'm a sucker for a podcast and one of the benefits is that unlike TV, you can listen on the move! Whether its doing dishes, sorting out your closet or just aimlessly wandering, switching out even 1-hour of TV for a podcast is a big plus.
Wait - stretch
Find yourself waiting? For the jug, the bus, or the gas pump. Kick up a heel, or raise your hands and stretch.
Shake it out
Don't lie, I know everyone has songs they can't NOT dance to. Put them on and while your tacking chores, don't resist the urge for a change.
Get a move on!
Your body is designed to move! By integrating movement into our daily routines, we honour our body's innate need for motion. The list above could go on and on (I encourage you to add your own!), but whether it's a walk on the beach with your BFF or a poorly coordinated dance session while preparing dinner, remember that every movement counts. Your body (and mind) will thank you for it.
- Tess
#Exercise #PersonalTraining #ExercisePhysiology #Taranaki #NewZealand #NewPlymouth #Movement #ExerciseisMedicine
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