Opening Statement:
Unfortunately, many people give up on their fitness goals early on due to improper guidance on fitness. Exercise isn’t about the pounds you shed or the number of various exercises you should be able to do. The key to an active, healthier lifestyle… is consistency! No matter what you do, ensure you keep doing it, and while you’re at it, eat healthier, don’t smoke cigarettes, or use any tobacco, only drink alcohol in moderation, and make better choices each day. The simplest things are the hardest to do. But this is the key to leading a happy and healthy life. Your family and friends will be healthy and happy too!
Celebrated in May
National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is celebrated in May. It is an initiative by the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. Fitness isn’t just for professional athletes. As doctors and nutritionists will tell you, any physical movement is good for you and watch what you eat.
History Of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month
· As early as 1956, American leaders recognized the importance of fitness for the health and future of the nation. President Eisenhower set things in motion by creating the President’s Council on Youth Fitness. In the early 1960s, President Kennedy renamed the council the President’s Council on Physical Fitness. The idea behind the renaming was to include people of all ages, encouraging everyone to lead active lives. The advocacy month is chock-a-block each year with activities and resources that promote an active lifestyle. Stay active and eat healthily, is the positive voice for May.
· The council shares resources online with tips on exercise and nutrition. There’s something in there for everyone. Are you a parent struggling to get your teenager out of their rooms? Take the help of online resources that encourage adolescents to move more. From senior citizens to post-partum women — everyone can get on board. Schools can join in the fun through healthy breakfast programs. Few things can compare to the brain and body fuel a good breakfast brings.
· In addition, the council conducts several campaigns through social media and other platforms. The #0to60 and the Let’s Move! campaigns push people of all ages to increase daily physical activity. The #MoveinMay campaign shines the spotlight on healthy living. Adopting a healthier lifestyle isn’t as difficult as it may seem. In the end, it all boils down to a shift in mindset and priorities.
· Physical activity keeps you fit, but it also reduces stress and the risk of chronic diseases. Exercise can make us less anxious and depressed. Plus, it can help teens develop leadership and relationship-building skills early on.
· Whether you enjoy a brisk walk, competitive sports, or dancing — keep at it this month. Even better, get your loved ones on board. If you’re new to exercise, this month is ideal to start. Talk to a friend, consult an expert if you’d like. Start small but start somewhere.
National Physical Fitness and Sports Month Timeline
1. Pre-1000 B.C. - Fitness for the Primitive Man
a. Besides hunting and gathering, the earliest humans walk over 20 miles to visit family and friends
2. 2500 B.C. — 250 B.C. - Confucius Knew it All
a. Cong Fu Gymnastics is born from the teachings of Confucius
3. 1776-1860 - America Gets Fit
a. German and Swedish immigrants make sports and gymnastics popular in the United States
4. 1939 Onwards - The Unlikely Origins of Modern Fitness
a. The needs of World War II and the Cold War give birth to a new fitness movement in the United States
What is the importance of physical fitness?
· It improves respiratory, cardiovascular health, and overall health. Staying active can also help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk for type two diabetes and heart disease, and reduce your risk for some cancers. In other words, staying active is a crucial part of maintaining good health and wellness.
What happens after one month of working out?
· One month of regular exercise improves the body’s strength and stamina. You may be able to run, cycle or walk faster without losing breath. Strength training becomes better, and you may be able to do more repetitions
What are wellness components?
· Personal health and wellness go beyond exercise. Holistic health covers five essential aspects: physical, social, spiritual, emotional, and intellectual wellness.
National Physical Fitness and Sports Month Activities
1. Join a sports league or group
a. Check for community sports leagues where you are. Whether it’s soccer, basketball, or frisbee and sign up and have a blast
2. Exercise with family
a. Depending on fitness levels, take some time to help everyone work up a good sweat. Power walk with parents and dance with grandma. Help everyone feel good about themselves today
3. Make fitness fun
a. Toss a ball around the yard. Shoot some hoops. Show kids that fitness can be fun and not a drag. Cap each session with fresh juices and a tasty, healthy snack
4. Fitness for everyone
a. A month that gets family, friends, and everyone moving? What’s not to love? These are the best kind of #familygoals
5. A community effort
a. Getting fit can sometimes be a lonely road. We find that it’s easier to stay the course when everyone around is as invested. It’s also way more fun
6. Our mindsets shift
a. We don’t need to be pro athletes or young to lead active lives. The best workout is the one that works for you
Closing Statement:
Plain and simple…no matter what your current physical or mental condition is, exercising, a healthy diet, and staying active is the key to a healthy and happier life. Joining various sports teams is not only great for physical activity but it is also an opportunity to meet new people, build relationships, and a support system. If you have a mobility issue, along with asking your healthcare professional and/or your health aide, I found the following activity suggestions online.
What exercise can I do in a wheelchair?
Activity ideas may include:
1. Swimming
2. Sitting exercises
3. Wheelchair workouts
4. Wheelchair sprinting in a studio or at a track
5. Using a rowing machine adapted for wheelchair use
6. Wheelchair sports such as basketball, netball, and badminton
Source of Information: Various Google Searches
Until Next Week, Stay Safe and Well!
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