M.A.D. Your Health - Exercise

This is the first in a series of M.A.D. (Make A Difference) blog posts, based on different areas to inspire you or give you a boost as we head into the summer hols.  Download the Life Balance Wheel to give you a starting point.

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?

This was made all the more poignant by discovering that a few of my ex-work colleagues have passed away over the last year - before their time.

Here are a few questions to get started:

• 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 enable you to deal with the physical, mental and emotional stresses and strains of life.  Your body will recover better from illness and stress if you're fit.

Know your limits and work within your own physical capabilities while building up your strength and stamina. 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 – it doesn't have to be the gym - go for a walk, cycle, swim or take an exercise class.
  
• Take the stairs instead of the lift/elevator.
• Walk or cycle 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.