Exercise and Fitness

By Ellie Sweum, PT

Gateau Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine

More Weight Control, Nutrition & Exercise Articles

Exercise and Fitness

According to the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults should participate in structured physical activity at a moderate intensity for at least 150 minutes per week or a vigorous intensity for at least 75 minutes per week to experience the health benefits of exercise. The same document states that regular exercise is a critical component of good health and that individuals can reduce their risk of developing chronic disease by staying physically active and participating in structured exercise on a regular basis.

The guidelines specifically state that regular exercise will prevent many common diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and the health risks associated with obesity. According to Michael Leavitt, the former Secretary of Health and Human Services, “There is strong evidence that physically active people have better health-related physical fitness and are at lower risk of developing many disabling medical conditions than inactive people.

Chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and arthritis, are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. These conditions are also the most common, costly, and preventable of all the health problems in the U.S. Obesity has become a major health concern and another costly condition, resulting in many secondary conditions.

One in three adults is obese and almost one in five youth between the ages of 6-19 are obese according to the CDC. More than one-third of all adults do not meet recommendations for aerobic physical activity based on the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, and 23% report no leisure-time physical activity at all in the preceding month. The good news is research has proven that each of these conditions can be managed or prevented with regular, structured exercise.

Medically oriented gyms around the country are recognizing this need and providing solutions. Membership in a medically oriented gym gives the medically compromised person a place to focus on a positive lifestyle change in a non-intimidating, state-of-the-art gym setting. Physical therapy staff, using medical backgrounds and fitness expertise will develop programs, supports systems, and follow up care to allow all members to reach goals and measurable outcomes they never thought possible.

Whether as a member of a medically oriented gym or by becoming more active independently, exercise appears to be the key to improved health and reduced risk of many chronic diseases.