A study published in USA Today this morning discusses the fact that more Americans are getting more active with walking. Walking is a great way to stay active, it is not enough activity to meet the requirements adults are recommended to meet to stay healthy.
Step 1 of my "Grow Younger Every Day" list is all about this very fact. Too many people feel as though simply 'staying active' with moderate activities is enough to stay healthy, although vigorous exercise is what is really required to keep a healthy cardiovascular system and ward off cardiovascular diseases.
The current government recommendation is adults should get at least 2½ hours (150 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity each week, such as brisk walking (fast enough that you get a little winded), or 1¼ hours (75 minutes) of a vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, such as jogging or swimming laps, or a combination of the two types, to get the most health benefits from exercise. This activity should be done in at least 10-minute bouts.
Don't get me wrong, I always try and promote as much activity as possible amongst people, regardless of the intensity level. Having said that, the reason why I promote activity is that everyone needs to start somewhere, but intensity is the name of the game and eventually everyone should try and increase the intensity, as well as the duration of their exercise to consistently challenge themselves.
If you are new to exercise, not only do I try and promote moderate activity to start, I actually recommend it as I believe that everyone should start off slow. Once you start to get in better shape, however, you should look for new ways to challenge yourself and up the intensity.
Quote of the day:
"The man who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones."
~ Chinese Proverb
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