With much more of the labor force working from home over the last few years, the need to break away from the computer screen to get some exercise is more important than ever. A sedentary lifestyle can cause many health problems, which is bad for you and the already overworked healthcare system. Keep reading while we dive in to see how much exercise we need and discuss some tech that can help us reach our goals.
Why is Exercise Important
Engaging in regular physical activity has many health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, better mental health, enhanced cognitive function, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
How Much Exercise Do I Need?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that a healthy adult engage in 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, which is about 30 minutes per day, five days a week. Moderate aerobic activity includes bike riding and brisk walking.
The Science of Exercise and Health
Exercise is a powerful tool for promoting good health. When you engage in physical activity, your body undergoes several beneficial physiological changes that can result in fat loss, increased strength, and improved mood. Different types of activity will have different results.
Cardiovascular Activity
Engaging in regular aerobic exercise, such as walking, running, or cycling, can strengthen your heart and improve circulation, which can lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. You will get tired less frequently, and it will be easier to do things like walk up a hill or stairs without getting fatigued.
Mental Health and Cognitive Function
Exercise has a big impact on mental health. Physical activity increases the production of endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, which can help reduce feelings of depression. It can also help improve brain function, making it easier to stay focused and solve problems. Many people also notice that they have an easier time remembering things.
Increased Strength
If you incorporate resistance training into your workout through resistance training or calisthenics, you can increase your overall strength. By targeting muscle groups and forcing them to work under heavy loads, you can cause muscle growth, which not only allows you to move heavier objects but can also improve your overall physical appearance.
Integrating Technology into Your Fitness Routine
Wearables like smartwatches and fitness trackers can help you monitor your heart rate, track steps, count calories burned, and even analyze sleep patterns. This information can help you develop a plan and track your progress. Brands like Fitbit, Apple Watch, and Garmin offer advanced features that can help you set and achieve fitness goals.
Fitness apps offer personalized workout plans, track progress, and provide motivation. Virtual trainers and AI-powered platforms can also adapt workouts based on your performance, making exercise more effective and engaging. Apps like Nike Training Club, MyFitnessPal, or even VR-based apps like Supernatural are great options.
The Role of Nutrition in Good Health
While exercise is important, you must eat a healthy diet and review it occasionally to make any necessary changes that could improve your health. A balanced diet of lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates will provide the required fuel for your body. Proper hydration is equally important, especially when you are working out.
Using technology to monitor your diet can be incredibly beneficial. Apps like MyFitnessPal allow you to track your food intake, monitor macronutrient ratios, and ensure you’re meeting your dietary needs.
Rest and Recovery
Adequate rest is essential for the body to repair itself, particularly after intense exercise, and that’s when all the magic happens. Take at least 48 hours of rest before you target the same muscle group after a workout, and make sure you get plenty of sleep at night.
Physician and Trainer
Always contact your doctor before starting an exercise routine to ensure you don’t have any underlying health conditions that might make it unsafe.
Getting help from a qualified trainer can also help ensure that you get the best results in the fastest time, with less risk of injury or health issues.