Exercise
Samuel Smith
23 Jan'19
5
EXERCISE
Exercise is a form of physical activity that is planned, structured, repetitive, and performed with the goal of improving health and fitness. So although all exercise is physical activity, not all physical activity is exercise. Regular exercise is not only a preventive measure; it also works to maintain health at its best. Studies clearly demonstrate that participating in regular physical activity provides many health benefits.Studies also prove that people who are physically active for approximately seven hours a week have a 40 percent lower risk of dying prematurely than those who are active for fewer than 30 minutes a week. There’s even substantially lower risk of premature death when people do two and a half hours of at least moderate intensity aerobic physical activity a week.
Hazards of inactivity
Heart diseases
Osteoporosis
Diabetes
Cancer
Anxiety
Depression
Benefits of Exercise
Lowers high blood pressure
Lowers cholesterol
Improves circulations
Improves sense of well-being
Lifts depression and reduce stress
Improves quality of sleep
Adults with chronic disabilities should consult their health care provider about the types and amounts of activity appropriate for them. As long as the activity is within one’s ability, it should be safe. In other words, if you want to postpone your funeral, exercise regularly!
Although physical activity has many health benefits, injuries and other adverse events do sometimes occur. The most common injuries affect the muscle skeletal system (bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons). Others problems, such as overheating and dehydration, may occur during activity. The good news is that scientific evidence strongly shows that appropriate physical activity is safe for almost everyone, and that the health benefits of physical activity far outweigh the risk. Proper training clothing should be worn whiles exercising thus lightweight garments that offer maximum freedom of movement and are appropriate to climatic conditions. Also it is vital to wear shoes that are comfortable, well-fitting and supportive.
More than 150 years ago Ellen G. White said, "Walking, in all cases where it is possible, is the best exercise, because in walking, all the muscles are brought into action" {Healthful Living 46.2}. "If physical exercise were combined with mental exertion, the blood would be quickened in its circulation, the action of the heart would be more perfect, impure matter would be thrown off, and new life and vigor would be experienced in every part of the body" { Healthful Living 46.3}. "If invalids would recover health, they should not discontinue physical exercise. . . . There will be increased vitality, which is so necessary to health" {Healthful Living 46.4).
As regular aerobic exercise helps us live better, so it is with the exercise of faith. We can trust God to lead our lives according to His loving prescription for health.
