Your Health - Exercise

This is the first in a series of M.A.D. Moments based on different areas of your life to inspire you or give you that boost with those New Year Resolutions.

What does being healthy mean to you? Is it about being the correct weight for your height and feeling good? Is it about being able to run for the bus or climb a flight of stairs without getting out of breath?

Here are a few questions for you.

• Are you a healthy weight?
• Have you recently had your cholesterol and blood pressure checked?
• When was your last dental or eye check-up?
• How many times do you exercise each week?
• When did you last have a full medical exam?

It's important to look after yourself physically to better enable you to deal with the mental and emotional side of things and your body will recover better from illness and stress. Know your limits and work within your own physical capabilities while building up your strength and stamina. It’s well known that fit and active people have stronger immune systems, live longer and are less prone to illness in later life and don’t get sick so often.


Action:

What difference could you make to your health this week?

• Exercise at least three times this week – go for a walk, cycle, swim or take an exercise class.
  
• Take the stairs instead of the lift/elevator.
• Walk instead of taking the car.
• Don’t forget about your mind too. Quizzes, crosswords, memory tests and puzzles all help to exercise your mind.
  

Exercise at your own pace and get your heart rate up for at least 20 minutes each time. If you're overweight check with your doctor before taking any strenuous exercise.

Have a healthy week and pick one thing to improve your fitness this week.