Aerobic exercise is a form of consistent movement that gets your blood pumping and your muscles moving. People enjoy walking, dancing, swimming, biking or using a piece of equipment like an elliptical machine. The recommendation is to spend 30-60 minutes, most days of the week, doing an aerobic activity. This can be broken up however you like. A ten minute walk after every meal equals 30 minutes of aerobic activity. The most important thing to consider is to slowly and gradually add more activity and make sure you feel good the whole time. Let your doctor know what you are considering and get their opinion about what would be a recommended activity and timeline.
The benefits of consistent aerobic activity are astonishing:
- Improved bodily comfort, function, and body mobility
- Reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes
- Greater mental clarity, focus, and memory
- Reduced pain, stress, and fatigue
- Elevated mood, and improved sleep
- Sustained weight loss
Enjoyable ways to exercise:
- Turn on music and dance in your home (or clean 😉
- Go for a walk with a friend or your dog
- Try an aerobic gym class like Zumba or spin and take it at your pace
- Buy a stationary bike, elliptical or treadmill and watch your favorite show
- Join a hiking club
What are your ideas for aerobic activities?
How many minutes each week would you enjoy engaging in an aerobic activity?
Use your journal, notebook or the Action Plan in the Wellness Your Way book to plot out the activity you plan to do each day. Check the box when you have completed that activity.
“A body in motion is a beautiful thing!” – Michelle