Physical fitness is something that everyone needs in their lifetime, whether it is an intense workout or just a brisk walk through your neighborhood. Everyone has also done some physical activity in their life, even if it didn’t feel like it. This article will tell you about the benefits of staying active, some ways you can be active, and some ways you can stay motivated even when you are feeling down.
First, let me define what physical activity means. According to the World Health Organization, physical activity is “any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure.” Using this definition, you can figure out how it is good for you. The World Health Organization also states that exercise can reduce or eliminate the risk of many health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and feelings of anxiety and depression. It doesn’t just get rid of stuff, but it can boost other parts of your body like your brain, muscles, and bone health. As well as enhancing motor and cognitive development. Mayo Clinic says that exercise can help increase mood, energy, and sleep. And can get rid of stroke, metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, and arthritis. Next are some ways you can avoid these diseases.
If you want to get active but don’t know how, these are some ways that you can stay active, and some input from fellow students and staff about what they think is the best way to get exercise. First, if you have a dog, you can take him or her on a walk. Walking can increase your cardiovascular and pulmonary system, as well as strengthen your bones, improve your balance, and reduce body fat. If you don’t have a dog, you can just go on a walk and enjoy the outdoors, or bring a friend and go on a walk together. The second way to get in a workout is by dancing. Dancing has many benefits, like improving your motor skills and flexibility. It can also get your heart rate up and improve your heart health. A third way to stay active is swimming. Swimming is a fun way for you to stay active at any age can can improve your quality of life. Swimming can help improve your cardiovascular system and tone your muscles because it uses almost all of them. Now that you have some ideas about how to stay active, what are some ways to stay motivated?
Next, we will discuss ways to stay motivated even when you feel low energy. Will Bercher, a junior here in Lodi, commented, “The idea of always pushing for a better version of yourself, no matter what, is what keeps me motivated.” It is important to remember why you are working out in the first place, and that is how Will stays motivated. Another way to stay motivated is by having a set routine, knowing what you are doing and when you are doing it. Calendar.com says that having a routine can improve your day-to-day motivation. They also say that surrounding yourself with inspiration can help you. Whether you make a vision board of quotes and photos that motivate you or if you just have a motto you live by framed in your room, it can help you stay on track. A different way to stay driven towards your task is to use the acronym “SMART”. First is setting specific goals. Setting a particular goal and knowing what you will do and how you will do it is important. The second is measurable goals. Setting a goal that is not too hard to achieve in your everyday life. Third is achievable goals. Set a realistic goal that you want to achieve. Fourth is relevant goals. Having a goal that makes sense for what you want to achieve. Fifth is a time-bound goal. Set a deadline by which you want to achieve your goal and change your workout accordingly. But don’t forget that having rest days is crucial to your health. “One or two days of rest, depending on the intensity of your workouts and how it fits your schedule,” Will said. Sophie Himes, another junior here in Lodi, claimed, “Rest is important for you, so you don’t overwork yourself and get injured.” Rest days can prevent injury, prevent muscle fatigue, and allow time for your body to recover.
In conclusion, this article explored what physical activity is, how you can stay active, and how to stay motivated for your goal. Doing a couple of things in your daily life could improve your quality of life tremendously and keep you on track for a healthier way of living.
