We’re not going to lie to you…there is no way to avoid some kind of exercise. The human body needs to move to keep the heart, lungs and muscles happy.
But we think there is good news. Studies have demonstrated that you don’t have to run 20 miles or lift 100 pounds to stay in shape. In fact, regular, moderate activity is easier on the body and has been shown to ward off disease just as effectively.
I’m sure you have heard that walking is the world’s best exercise. And it certainly is good for you. A brisk 30 minute walk five times a week is all the cardiovascular work-our your body needs.
But you don’t have to walk to get those benefits. Why not do something active that you enjoy? Dancing, canoeing, cycling, swimming, and lots of other activities will provide the same benefits, and you won’t even think of them as “exercise.” Mix it up, do it with friends, and you never have to get bored.
To protect your bones, especially after menopause, just make sure that one of the activities you enjoy is a weight-bearing activity. Your bones need some amount of stress to maintain density. Just adding a few jumps to your walk or dance is all it takes to protect your lower body. Walking with small weights, or doing push-ups and other weight bearing exercises, will keep your upper body strong.
We’ll include some suggested activities in our weekly wellness tip, but the most important tip of all is Just Keep Moving!
