By Joel Peterson – Level 5 Personal Trainer at Apple Athletic Club
Have a New Year’s resolution? Want to ward off depression? Begin by living a healthy life style! As you get started, keep it simple.
Many people find it difficult to maintain a positive outlook on life through the winter months in east Idaho. With that said, I have never seen anything ward off depression like a long, healthy walk. In the springtime it is easier to do, but in the winter months, it can be more challenging. Breathing fresh air, getting your blood pumping, and simply experiencing the outdoors adds a bounce to my step. In the winter months you can keep it simple…. don’t give up! A brisk walk in the mall, shorter outdoor walks or doing simple home exercises can help. I’ll show you how!
Want to get happier and healthier? Start moving and just keep reading.
Brisk Walking
When it comes to weight control, brisk walking is your friend. It is easy, cheap, and it can improve your mood, increase your energy, lower your blood pressure and protect you against diabetes, osteoporosis and cancer.
However, if you really want enjoy those benefits, you need to put some spring in your step. Walk like you’re late for the bus. You should be able to carry on a conversation, but you should also be a little breathless when you talk.
The more brisk walking you can incorporate into your daily activities, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or pacing the length of your office when you’re on the phone, the better. Walking just 2,000 extra steps a day can burn about 100 extra calories without even giving it a second thought. And, walking has even recently been found to slow cognitive decline, both in adults with cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease and in healthy adults.
Indoor Exercises
If you just can’t get outside, do some squats or walk in place. The key is to get your body moving. So this week, find ways in your daily activities to simply walk further, pick up the pace or simply get started with some indoor exercises.
You can do this! C’mon! Let’s get started on a journey of radiant health.