Why Exercise Is So Important For Your Health - part 2

Can I exercise too much?

Sure you can. There is such a thing as ‘chronic cardio’ where the amount of exercise you do can actually have negative long term consequences on your health.

Although in my experience, those I meet who are chronic exercises are often aware of what they are doing and are driven by something else rather than the pursuit of optimal health.

Another quote I recall from a runners forum:

I run to add life to my years not years to my life

Well I can't argue with that. Despite the potential long term health risks such folk have made an informed decision and are therefore consciously aware and responsible for their own actions and decisions.

In this article I am intending to inspire those who may be less active and less aware of their decision, conscious or not, to be inactive and the risks involved.

We have an ageing population and the elderly are generally the least active and most at risk for developing chronic disease. Despite living longer lives thanks to the safety of modern medicine the rates of chronic disease are increasing. Longer lives but of less quality is a false health economy in my book.

The greatest risk

The main culprit is reported to be extended periods of sitting on a regular basis resulting in a sedentary lifestyle, the fourth leading risk factor for mortality. Some even claim that the number of deaths as a result of inactivity equals those caused by smoking. I appreciate we have to be dubious at times of statistical data but the reference is a powerful one.

Exercise at any age

The later in life you adopt a regular exercise routine the tougher it will be but no truer words apply as 'better late than never!'

Staying active into your older age will help you reserve muscle and flexibility which is essential for remaining stable on your feet and bouncing back more quickly from illness or injury if you do get sick. Your brain and cognitive function will thank you to; decreasing depression while retaining memory and clearer thinking.

If you have reached a point where you are afraid to exercise due to aches and pains, stiffness, weakness, feeling unsteady or lacking confidence - do not give up hope consult a Physiotherapist who will assess your mobility, strength, stability and balance and assist you by prescribing specific exercises to start you moving better again.

Group exercise classes such as Pilates with a professional instructor can be a great way to help you along this process. The class does not need to be age specific but rather cater for different levels of fitness and mobility. Such classes can be fun and socially supportive.

Remember, you don't need to break a sweat. Aim to get slightly out of breath while moving sensibly and stop the activity if you feel unwell.

The important thing is you just need to get active and keep your body moving.

by Simon Coghlan.