Hungry Squirrel Celebrates National Fitness and Health Month: Get Moving for a Healthier You!
May is here, and Hungry Squirrel is jumping into the spirit of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month! It's time to dust off those sneakers, stretch those muscles, and embrace an active lifestyle that will benefit your overall health and well-being. Did you know that according to the US Department of Health, only 20% of adults are meeting the recommended levels for aerobic and strength-building activities?1 Let's change that statistic together and make this month count!
Why is aerobic health so important? Well, let's explore some of the key benefits of living an active lifestyle:
Reduced stress levels:
Exercise has been proven to be a fantastic stress-reliever. When we engage in aerobic activities, our bodies release endorphins, also known as "feel-good" hormones. These endorphins help to alleviate stress and boost our mood, leaving us feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.2
Sharper mental focus:
Regular physical activity has been linked to improved cognitive function. When we exercise, our brain receives increased blood flow and oxygen, which enhances our ability to concentrate, think creatively, and make decisions.3 So, if you're looking for a way to boost your productivity and mental clarity, lace up those shoes and get moving!
Weight management:
Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for overall well-being. Aerobic exercises, such as running, swimming, or cycling, can help burn calories and shed excess pounds. Not only does regular exercise contribute to weight loss, but it also helps to prevent weight gain in the long run.4 So, if you're aiming for that summer beach body, aerobic activities are your secret weapon!
Tips to help you stay on track:
The key to sticking to an exercise routine is choosing activities that you genuinely enjoy5. Whether it's dancing, playing a sport, or taking a brisk walk in nature, find something that brings you joy and makes you look forward to being active.
Start small and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. Setting achievable goals not only keeps you motivated but also helps prevent injuries and burnout 6. Remember, progress is a journey, not a race!
Don't limit yourself to just one type of exercise. Variety is not only the spice of life but also the key to a well-rounded fitness routine 7. Try incorporating different forms of aerobic activities, such as jogging, swimming, cycling, or even dance workouts. This will keep your workouts fun, engaging, and challenging.
Hydration plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and maximizing athletic performance 8. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workouts to stay properly hydrated. Don't forget to listen to your body and replenish those fluids.
Exercising with friends or joining a fitness community can make your workouts more enjoyable and help you stay committed 9. Not only will you be accountable to each other, but you'll also have a support system to cheer you on and celebrate your achievements.
Remember, the journey towards better health starts with a single step. So, let's lace up our sneakers, embrace an active lifestyle, and make this National Fitness and Health Month a memorable one. Let's show the world what we're capable of when we prioritize our well-being!
1. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. “Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.” HHS.gov, n.d., https://www.hhs.gov/.
2. Mayo Clinic Staff. “Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress.” Mayo Clinic, 5 Mar. 2019, https://www.mayoclinic.org/.
3. Godman, Heidi. “Regular exercise changes the brain to improve memory, thinking skills.” Harvard Health Blog, 9 Apr. 2014, https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/.
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “How to Prevent Overweight & Obesity.” CDC.gov, n.d., https://www.cdc.gov/.
5. Mayo Clinic Staff. “Fitness program: 5 steps to get started.” Mayo Clinic, 11 Dec. 2019, https://www.mayoclinic.org/.
6. American Heart Association. “American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults and Kids.” Heart.org, 16 Apr. 2018, https://www.heart.org/.
7. American College of Sports Medicine. “Mixing it Up: Cross Training for Fitness and Fun.” ACSM.org, n.d., https://www.acsm.org/.
8. American Council on Exercise. “Hydration for Health and Performance.” ACEFitness.org, n.d., https://www.acefitness.org/.
9. Wallace, L. Kaye et al. “The Influence of Social Support on Physical Activity Behavior in Older Adults.” Journal of Aging and Physical Activity 15.2 (2007): 223-236. PubMed Central, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17556778/.