Excercise - The miracle cure !

Some say exercise is the miracle cure we have all been waiting for. It can reduce your risk of heart disease by 35%, and the chance of developing diabetes and some cancers by up to 50%. It reduces the symptoms of osteoarthritis and lowers the chance of having a hip fracture by almost 70%. It also reduces the chance of an older person having a fall. The benefits for psychological wellbeing are also clear – regular physical activity improves self-esteem and mood, promotes restful and restorative sleep and reduces the risk of anxiety, depression and dementia.

So how much is enough?

Doing any physical activity is better than none. The Australian Guidelines for adults up to 65 years of age recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate activity every day or 30 minutes of vigorous activity 3 times per week. This should be combined with muscle strengthening exercise on at least 2 days per week.

Adults over 65 should aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity every day. This activity should include a range of physical activities that incorporate fitness, strength, balance and flexibility. If you have not exercised recently you should start at a level that is easily manageable and build up to the recommended amount slowly. For most people the easiest way to exercise more is to make activity part of everyday life, such as by walking instead of using the car.

So the bottom line is this – you can sit still for 23 and a half hours per day, but you must move for 30 minutes every day!