Think about exercise as good medicine
Lifestyle medicine is the new catchphrase in the world of health.
Research suggests that seven out of 10 risk factors for mortality relate to diet and physical activity practices. High blood pressure, excess weight and obesity, high blood glucose levels, poor nutrition and inactivity are linked to the majority of health issues.
A recent conference of the American College of Sports Medicine suggested physicians write a prescription for a regular dose of exercise and dietary recommendation prior to prescribing pharmaceuticals. ACSM’s program, Fitness is Medicine, is aimed at changing the way we approach health.
The question comes down to understanding why we don’t take charge of our health. When surveyed, 95 per cent of North Americans know that physical activity and good nutritional habits are important for good health, yet only 25 per cent of us act on it. Forming good habits takes effort and barriers to exercise and nutrition continue to sabotage even the best plans.
If we can learn something from the dental community it would be how well they have convinced all of us to brush our teeth on a daily basis.
On top of this we have regular appointments with our dentist to ensure the health of our teeth. Can we apply the same discipline to our overall health?
What if we started our day by brushing our teeth, drinking a glass of water and exercising for a 20-minute workout? Add to our health-care plan that we meet with a personal trainer at least every six months to keep us on track.
ACSM encourages us to change how we see health care and acknowledge that good health comes from good habits. Exercise is medicine.
The American College of Sports Medicine completes an annual survey as to the most current trends in the fitness industry. The results for 2013 have been released and here are the top 10 fitness trends. 1. Educated, certified and experienced fitness professionals
This trend claimed the top spot in 2013 for the sixth consecutive year. Around the world, the health and fitness industry continues for the most part to be unregulated by either local or federal law. It is important that personal trainers and instructors are certified and qualified to teach the programs offered.
In Alberta, consumers should look for instructors with a minimum of an AFLCA or CanFitPro certification in the discipline being taught. Personal trainers should have a bachelor of kinesiology or be certified by one of the leading accredited or certification bodies, including CSEP, PFT diploma, ACSM, NASM, NSCA and ACE. 2. Strength training
Remaining in the No. 2 spot for the second year in a row, strength training should be part of a comprehensive exercise routine at any age. 3. Body-weight training
This is the first appearance of this trend in the survey. Bodyweight training uses minimal equipment, making it more affordable. Not just limited to pushups and pull-ups, this trend allows people to get back to the basics with fitness. 4. Children and obesity
The epidemic of overweight or obesity in children continues to be a serious public health problem. It is everyone’s responsibility to encourage daily activity for children. Parents — you are the role model for your children. 5. Exercise and weight loss
Understanding how to fuel your body and balance your training program so they work hand in hand is essential for weight-loss success. Avoid trendy weight loss programs. Invest in an individual program with a registered dietitian or certified nutritionist. 6. Fitness programs for older adults
The baby boom generation is growing older and living longer. Physicians are recommending that exercise is important as we age. Fitness programs for older adults should be specifically tailored to their needs and not based on current media fitness trends. 7. Personal training
Personal trainers are becoming more specialized to meet the diverse needs of clients. Look for an accredited personal trainer who meets your specific needs. 8. Functional fitness
This trend is about using strength training to improve balance, co-ordination, and endurance to participate in daily activities without stress. This form of training takes a broader approach to training and teaches you how to move effectively and efficiently. 9. Core training
This training is a departure from traditional crunches to exercising core muscles to improve overall stability of the trunk. It transfers that stability to the extremities, enabling the individual to meet the demands for activities of daily living and sports performance. 10. Group personal training
This trend provides specialized training specific to a small group of people. The benefits are the motivation of group activities with the results-oriented programming of a personal training session.