How Much Should I Really Be Exercising?
Exercise, some roll their eyes at the thought, some live by it, and then some do it just because they feel it’s the right thing to do.
But why should we exercise, and how often should we be active?
There are so many benefits to staying active. Studies have shown that being active regularly produces significant health effects and reduces the risk of premature death from any cause (Vina et al.). To make it nice and clear, exercise:
– Manages and controls weight
– Reduces risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular health
– Maintains blood pressure and cholesterol
– Maintains strong bones and muscles
– Lowers the risk of developing osteoporosis
– Improves mental health and wellbeing
– Lowers anxiety and stress
– Creates opportunities to socialise and meet new people
In 2021, the Australian Department of Health reviewed all Australians’ physical activity and exercise guidelines. There’s more to it than the known 30 mins of exercise daily!
For each listed age group, there are categories of physical activity, strength and sedentary time. Read the table below (adopted from the Australian Government website) to see the recommendations!
Here are a few examples of activities you could choose to meet the exercise guidelines:
Moderate Activity
- Brisk walk
- Swimming
- Golf
Vigorous activity
- Jogging
- Aerobics
- Soccer
Strength
- Squats
- Lunges
- Push-ups
If you feel you are not being active due to pain or injury, please call Williamstown Health & Lifestyle so we work with you to relieve your pain and get you back into an exercise program. Phone (03) 9397 8877
Elizabeth Lynch
Osteopath
