Exercise

Over that last few weeks I have noticed many more people walking on the treadmills of the gym, a few clients have said that they are having difficulty with getting into their usual yoga classes or parking at their Pilates lessons due to all the people ‘trying a new exercise’ at the beginning of the year. I wonder how many will continue on to the summer and beyond.

The NHS website www.nhs.uk encourages us to get some kind of regular exercise. The website highlights the health benefits:

Up to a 35% lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke

Up to a 50% lower risk of type 2 diabetes

Up to a 50% lower risk of colon cancer

Up to 20% lower risk of breast cancer

A 30% lower risk of early death

Up to an 83% lower risk of osteoarthritis

Up to a 68% lower risk of hip fracture

A 30% lower risk of falls (among older adults)

Up to a 30% lower risk of depression

Up to a 30% lower risk of dementia

I have tried to use exercise to lose weight in my adult life, anything from aqua aerobics to running on the treadmill and over the fields. Exercise will help with increasing metabolism and burn more calories. Now my regular weekly exercise is Pilates which enables me to do my work without back difficulties.

Exercise can increase your energy levels helping people with various medical conditions, even helping those with persistent fatigue. It can help with relaxation and getting a good night’s sleep.

More and more people who wouldn’t have imagined running are now starting with ‘couch to 5km’ and then moving on to organised Park runs at the weekends encouraging people of all abilities in a safe environment. Walking for Health groups for those who are unable or don’t want to run are now nationwide. Exercise classes with intensive spin or stretching and gentle group classes are busy. Some people may prefer working with personal trainers to get an individual plan away from others. Swimming, pilates, yoga, tai chi are just some of the exercise classes that the town of Pershore can provide.