Types of Fitness & Exercise
Physical activity can be anything as long as you are moving! Choose an activity you like and something that will keep your interest for a while or choose a variety of favourite activities to do throughout the week.
Aerobic - This includes walking, running, playing team sports (football, basketball, rugby, etc), swimming. Aerobic exercise increases your heart rate, raises your body temperature therefore making you sweat a little, and increase your rate of breathing. This type of physical activity improves your over all fitness, is best for heart health and weigh loss.
Strengthening - Weight lifting can help you tone your muscle, loss weight, and build up your muscles. This will help you carry out everyday activities for longer without getting tired, improve the shape of your body and muscles, make your bones and muscles stronger and prevent injury.
Flexibility - This includes stretching, yoga, and Tai Chi. Stretching maximises the benefits of weigh training and aerobic exercise. It can prevent injuries and back pain in future years, increase the blow flow to your muscles and made them more efficient . Flexibility is important for preventing muscles becoming sore and injured, helping you carry out everyday activities more easily and improving posture.
Remember, take it slowly! When you start an exercise programme, start off gently and set yourself short-term goals. Don't expect miracles overnight and reward yourself for achieving your weekly goals. Take the time to make physical activity a priority in your life.
Health risks of inactivity
- Premature death
- Heart disease
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Adult-onset diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Stroke
- Depression
- Colon cancer
