During the last summer Olympics my family was glued to the TV, watching some of the world’s best
athletes do the almost impossible. It’s obvious that they are in good physical shape because of their
hours of physical activity, and not one that participated in aerobic-type sports could be considered
overweight. So it’s clear that physical activity has benefits for elite athletes, but does it have benefits for
the average person, like me who can only manage a few minutes each day? The answer to that question
is a resounding yes! Guidelines for Americans suggest that just 150 minutes of moderate to intense
aerobic activity each week with some strengthening activities (lifting weights, sit-ups, etc.) can have
significant health benefits. These include lowering the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease,
diabetes; strengthening bones, and muscles; weight reduction and maintenance and enhancing mood.
Even walking, the safest, simplest and least expensive activity, has benefit. Our concern in public health
is accessibility – some do not have safe places in their neighborhoods to walk. It’s an ongoing area of
advocacy for public health practitioners, but until those neighborhood problems get resolved, there are
options. Parks, trails or even walking in malls or the parking lot at work are alternatives if walking in
one’s neighborhood is not safe. For those concerned with public health, the focus is a reduction in
chronic diseases and the associated costs. But there are clearly benefits to a brisk walk, beyond the
physical health benefits, especially if shared with a companion or while listening to some good music.
I know well the benefits of regular physical activity, but like most I struggle with making it a routine part
of my very busy day. So I am inspired by our Olympic athletes to be active. The challenge is to make it a
habit, a regular part of each day. I just need to do it, and do it every day until it becomes a routine, and
not just when I watch the summer Olympics every 4 years. Wish me luck.