In the News - August 2008
For better health, small changes can mean big health payoffs
MURFREESBORO, Ark. - Small changes, plus consistency can equal big health
benefits, says Robbie McKinnon, a Pike County extension agent for the University
of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
"Starting off slowly with small achievable goals and sound advice will ensure
safety in your training routine and deter you from giving up," she said. "This
way you will not be overwhelmed by a large, daunting long-term goal and you’ll
gain all the benefits of regular physical activity."
Adults are encouraged to do at least 30 minutes of moderately intense
physical activity each day.
"You don’t have to do all 30 minutes at once," she said. "You get the same
health benefits from breaking 30 minutes up into three 10-minute or two
15-minute intervals throughout the day."
However, working in segments of less than 10 minutes may not be as
beneficial.
"For most people, greater health benefits can be obtained by engaging in
physical activity of more vigorous intensity or of longer duration," McKinnon
said. "If you’re breathing hard and fast and your heart rate is increased
substantially during physical activity, it’s probably vigorously intense."
Strength training is also recommended.
"These exercises increase the strength of our muscles, help maintain the
integrity of our bones and may improve our balance, coordination, and mobility,"
she said. "Strength training can also change the appearance of our bodies with
better muscle definition."
Usually, resistance exercises are done with weights or workout bands. An
example of a goal to work toward could be doing 8 to 12 repetitions of 6 to 8
strength-training exercises twice a week. Strength training helps to develop and
maintain healthy bones and develop and tone muscles.
"In the big picture, it also comes down to good physical health," she said. "Physical activity helps us deal with the demands of the day, release stress and
just feel better about yourself.
For more information on health and nutrition, contact your county Extension
office or visit www.uaex.edu.
The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the University of Arkansas
Division of Agriculture.
August 22, 2008
Media Contact: Lamar James
Extension Communications Specialist
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
(501) 671-2187 or (501) 753-0207
ljames@uaex.edu
Related Link
|
