How movement benefits your physical health
For your own practice
Draft: lightly edited from Tania’s original article, for her approval.
There is a strong link between physical activity and good health. The best news is that being active doesn’t have to cost anything. Walking is one of the most accessible forms of activity, and it lets us enjoy being out in nature.
Joining a walking group is fun and builds social connections. Connecting with others through physical activity can support both mental and physical health, and it helps combat loneliness.
As we age, we tend to become less active, and for some people walking becomes difficult. Meditative movement classes such as Tai Chi and Qi Gong are good options, and can improve your sense of wellbeing and vitality.
Any physical activity you enjoy can help you:
- build confidence in your physical abilities
- look after your brain health
- manage your weight
- reduce your risk of disease
- strengthen your bones and muscles
- keep doing the everyday things you love
Staying motivated is the key
We all know that staying motivated is the hard part. That’s why it helps to choose an activity that doesn’t feel like exercise. Have you considered dancing? Combining movement and music is restorative, and dance has brought people together for centuries.
As physical activity, dancing can be as effective as jogging, walking or swimming, and it’s easier to stick with because it’s fun. It builds flexibility, strength and endurance, and it can improve your balance and spatial awareness. Put on your favourite music and dance for ten minutes a day, or find a dance class near you. If you’d like to know more about the benefits of dancing, listen to Michael Mosley’s podcast Just One Thing.
At least 30 minutes of physical activity a day is recommended. If you’re not doing any at the moment, start with a little each day: two 15-minute or three 10-minute bouts, building up over time. Any activity is better than none. Include some muscle-strengthening activity on at least two days a week, and try a few different activities until you find what works for you.
Ways to move more
Small changes add up. Try one, some or all of these:
- walk or cycle instead of taking the car
- get off public transport a stop early and walk the rest of the way
- take the stairs instead of the lift at work
- walk the children or grandchildren to school
See your doctor first
It’s a good idea to see your doctor before you start a new physical activity programme. They can do a pre-exercise screening to check for any conditions that might need care, and help you choose the kind of activity that’s best for you.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Please check with your doctor before starting a new exercise programme.
Want to move with me? Join a live online class or one of my workshops.