It’s May!
The weather is improving, school is almost out, and it is becoming appealing to
be outside again. It is also National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. This
makes May a great time to revisit fitness and activity goals. Our New Year’s
resolutions are long behind us. Some of us remain committed to our fitness
goals, while others have fallen off. Either way, now is a great time to commit
to increased activity in the improving weather. Why shoulder fitness be a
priority? Physical activity is important for everyone, no matter what the age.
For children and adolescents – Physical activity can improve
muscular fitness, bone health, and heart health. For children, this can be as
easy as riding bikes, swimming at the local pool, or impromptu games of tag,
kickball, baseball or basketball. Getting children off of their electronic devices and
outside in the fresh air is imperative not only to their fitness goals, but
their social skills as well.
Adults – Physical activity can lower
the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer. Playing
with your children at the playground, family bike rides, or walks can help to
improve physical fitness, as well as strengthening family bonds.
Older adults – Physical activity can lower
the risk of falls and improve cognitive functioning (like learning and judgment
skills). After dinner walks, or trips to a forest preserve or arboretum, as
well as visits to the local pools, are excellent ways improve fitness without
it feeling like work. Exercise also helps to improve moods and sleep.
There are plenty of ways to
incorporate exercise into your day without it feeling like a chore, so get out
there with your families and friends and get active!!
Cathy Malooly, PT, MPT
TheraCORE, Inc.
Burr Ridge, IL
