How To Make Exercise A Regular Habit

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

The Christmas season is upon us and this means that New Year's resolutions are not far behind.  Starting an exercise program will likely be on many people’s resolution lists, and for good reason.  Regular exercise has long been identified as an essential element of good health.  Despite this fact, many struggle to make exercise a regular habit.  Below are some helpful tips that can help individuals stick with an exercise program.

Make Exercise Convenient:  Incorporating regular exercise into a busy life necessitates some planning and sacrifice so it becomes a priority.  This may require scheduling exercise into everyday routines and/or making regular exercise as convenient as possible, thereby increasing the likelihood that it remains a priority.  Exercise does not need to be time consuming.  Regular bouts of exercise for as little as 30 minutes a day can have a positive impact on health.

Make Exercise Safe:  An exercise that may be considered safe for one individual may not be safe for another due to age, physical limitations, and other health concerns.  If you are not sure where to start, consult with an experienced individual such as a personal trainer or health care provider who can assist in choosing activities that are appropriate for you.  If you have been inactive for a period of time, gradually ease into activity and take it slow.

Make Exercise Fun:  Individuals should choose a range of exercise activities that they enjoy.  Performing these activities with a workout buddy, friend, or family member also results in the exercise being more satisfying.  Those individuals who choose fitness and recreational activities they enjoy are more likely to be consistent with those activities.  Having another individual to share this with also increases the likelihood that you will continue with the exercise activity.

Make Exercise Feel Good:  Not only does exercise make you physically stronger; it also has the benefits of releasing excess tension, building self-esteem, and stimulating the body’s natural “feel good” chemicals called endorphins.  Although there may be some initial physical discomfort when beginning a new exercise program, this may be your body’s normal response when starting a new activity and should not last more than one to two weeks.  If discomfort or pain persists beyond this point, seek advice from a knowledgeable individual to make sure the exercise you are performing is appropriate and being done correctly.

Make Exercise Practical:  Individuals beginning an exercise program need to have realistic expectations about the amount of time they can invest, the activities they will enjoy engaging in, and the physical and psychological benefits they expect to experience.

Regular exercise leads to tremendous health benefits that can be initiated by individuals of any age or shape.  Hopefully we have inspired you to invest in the health of your future.  From all of us at the New Hamburg Wellness Centre, good luck and Season's Greetings!

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.

How To Make Exercise A Regular Habit

By Dr. John A. Papa, DC, FCCPOR(C)

Regular exercise has long been identified as an essential element of good health.  Despite this fact, many struggle to make exercise a regular habit.  Below are some helpful tips that can help individuals stick with an exercise program.

 

Make Exercise Convenient:  Incorporating regular exercise into a busy life necessitates some planning and sacrifice so it becomes a priority.  This may require scheduling exercise into everyday routines and/or making regular exercise as convenient as possible, thereby increasing the likelihood that it remains a priority.  Exercise does not need to be time consuming.  Regular bouts of exercise for as little as 30 minutes a day can have a positive impact on health.

 

Make Exercise Safe:  An exercise that may be considered safe for one individual may not be safe for another due to age, physical limitations, and other health concerns.  If you are not sure where to start, consult with a knowledgeable health care provider who can assist in choosing activities that are appropriate for you.  If you have been inactive for a period of time, gradually ease into activity and take it slow.

 

Make Exercise Fun:  Individuals should choose a range of exercise activities that they enjoy.  Performing these activities with a workout buddy, friend, or family member also results in the exercise being more satisfying.  Those individuals who choose fitness and recreational activities they enjoy are more likely to be consistent with those activities.  Having another individual to share this with also increases the likelihood that you will continue with the exercise activity.

 

Make Exercise Feel Good:  Not only does exercise make you physically stronger; it also has the benefits of releasing excess tension, building self-esteem, and stimulating the body’s natural “feel good” chemicals called endorphins.  Although there may be some initial physical discomfort when beginning a new exercise program, this may be your body’s normal response when starting a new activity and should not last more than one to two weeks.  If discomfort or pain persists beyond this point, seek advice from an experienced individual to make sure the exercise you are performing is appropriate and being done correctly.

 

Make Exercise Practical:  Individuals beginning an exercise program need to have realistic expectations about the amount of time they can invest, the activities they will enjoy engaging in, and the physical and psychological benefits they expect to experience.

 

Regular exercise leads to tremendous health benefits that can be initiated by individuals of any age or shape.  For more information on health, wellness, and exercise, visit  www.nhwc.ca.

 

This article is a basic summary for educational purposes only.  It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.

Building A Better You

Ontario Chiropractic Association

When you’ve got a lot on the go, personal goals can get lost in the shuffle. Between work, kids, commuting, cooking and housework, sometimes it’s hard to find the time for your personal health and fitness.

 

Chiropractors can be part of the solution to building a better you. You may be surprised at the number of ways a chiropractor can help!

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Standing Tall

Research has shown that good posture not only prevents pain and injuries but also gives you more energy and improves your appearance and your mood.  That’s why having an expert look at how posture affects your muscles, bones and joints can have a big impact on your quality of life. Your chiropractor can show you how to develop and use good posture when typing, driving, running, playing sports and carrying children.

 

Moving Well

When your body is stiff and not very flexible, it is easier to become injured and more difficult to recover. By teaching you simple exercises and stretches designed for your needs, a chiropractor can help you regain your full range of motion.

 

Getting the Right Fuel

Consistently eating well is a challenge whether you’re an athlete, a stay-at-home mom or an office worker. One of the best ways to sort through your options is to get customized advice from a health practitioner who understands you and your daily needs. Chiropractors are trained in nutrition and holistic health and can help you find a diet that is right for you.

 

Staying Active

While sitting may not seem harmful, too much sitting takes quite a toll on our lower back and neck. Exercise can help to undo this damage while also benefitting your muscles and your heart. If you’re struggling to find the time for fitness, Canada’s chiropractors are here for you. Straighten Up Canada! is a 3-minute-a-day program for adults and kids that includes posture exercises and stretches to keep you flexible and strong.

 

A Good Night’s Sleep

Sleep is important to your health, both for your body and your mind. No matter whether you sleep on your back, your side or your stomach, the right pillow and mattress will help you support your spine so you can be truly relaxed and refreshed while you sleep. If you’re having trouble sleeping, your chiropractor can be part of the solution.