Exercise is Medicine Month
Throughout the years, I have always told my clients that one of the best medicines they can “take” daily does not come in pill form, but rather in exercise. Getting up and moving is one of the best things you can do for your body. Unlike medicines you find in your bathroom cabinet that come with the risk of unpleasant side effects, a physician-cleared exercise program brings benefits to your health without side effects, while potentially keeping you off medication. In a culture that has become very sedentary in the way we live our daily lives, it is important to remember to make movement a part of your day!
After saying for so long, “exercise is medicine,” to my clients, imagine my surprise when online this morning I came across the information that May is actually “Exercise is Medicine Month!” This month long healthy initiative came to fruition through the American College of Sports Medicine in May of 2009 in conjunction with the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports’ National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. It is a universal healthcare initiative to inform the world on the importance of exercise, and the benefits it can bring to your life.
Here are some ways to start celebrating this global initiative and start making exercise your favorite medicine to take!
- Change your mind frame about exercise. Instead of having it be something you “fit in,” turn it into something you do every day like brushing your teeth. Schedule it in your planner like any other appointment so you can’t miss it.
- Challenge yourself. Sometimes all you need is a little push to get you started. Sign up for an event, be it a one mile run or a half marathon, depending on your fitness level. Even though you may not be in it to win, you are challenging yourself and you will see the training becomes more of a priority than if you didn’t have the challenge planned.
- DIY: Do it Yourself!– Exercise does not have to be at a gym or class! My blog “Conquer April Showers with an Indoor Workout” gives you an entire worksheet of exercise ideas you can do indoors without setting foot in a gym!
- Make it social- Especially with the nicer weather finally upon us, creating walking groups or making exercise a social event can often increase your will to do it. Make sure you pair up with a friend or create a group of individuals with similar fitness capabilities so nobody feels like they are keeping up or are too far ahead of the group.
This is certainly one of my favorite “health holidays” I have come across, and it’s one I certainly hope you can find a way to embrace. If you need some help visit http://exerciseismedicine.org to download handouts and other ideas to keep this initiative going strong all year long!
Your turn to take action: What will you do to make exercise a priority in your life?
Great post….yes I did and will do more as the day progresses. I have been working with my doctor and nutritionist for 2 years or so to change my mindset of food and exercise. In 10 months, I have lost 214.5 inches (all over) and still have a ways to go.
Excellent Liz. That’s awesome progress. I truly believe that embracing a healthy mindset along with sound nutrition education and caring support will help you achieve good health. Continued good luck to you!
The funny thing is I gripe about exercising until I actually do it and then I feel worlds better. Exercise always makes me feel better. It is indeed the best medicine there is (along with laughter of course!)!!
I agree, laughter is really important and releases those “feel good” hormones just like exercise does! Thanks for commenting.
I am so re-posting this!!! My line of business involves food and the spirit – but the one thing missing, hands-down, that seems to repel EVERYBODY is moving their body. Finding ways to encourage this is a challenge. I’m always grateful for anyone willing to put ideas out there. Thank you!
You’re very welcome Sara! And, thank you for passing the word on! Exercise is soooo important!