May - National Physical Fitness & Sports Month
Being physically active has many benefits. It helps you keep a strong immune system, sleep better, feel better and reduce the risk of obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. Movement is among the most accessible and effective ways to improve physical and mental health. Being physically active is not only about going to the gym or being part of a sports team, it includes many activities such as swimming, running, jogging, walking, and dancing, anything that involves moving!
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 53% of American adults meet the recommended physical activity guidelines for aerobic physical activity and only 23% get the government-recommended dose of exercise each week: 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity, plus two strength-training sessions.
Since the pandemic started many Americans have been confined indoors, which has made people more sedentary; people are sitting and looking at screens more often than ever before. But as we head into spring, it is time to dust off those walking shoes and get moving!
Here are some tips to help you stay active during this time and celebrate together the National Physical Fitness & Sports Month:
- Get outside as much as possible. Take a walk, jog, or ride a bike outside, just remember to wear a mask and/or maintain a safe distance from others. The fresh air and sunshine will provide a further boost to your overall health.
- Keep your workouts interesting. Listen to a podcast or to your favorite playlists while working out at home. You can even add activity video games or “exergames” that simulate dancing, skateboarding, soccer, bowling, or tennis as alternatives if you are unable to participate in the real thing.
- Build more movement into your day. Move around while you are on a call, stand for an online meeting, do squats or lunges while you are waiting for a meeting to start, or jumping jacks in front of the TV during the credits or commercial breaks.
- Join the kids. Play catch or tag, go for a bike ride, shoot baskets, or pass the soccer ball with your kids. Taking the focus away from online classes, work or chores and playing together can even help build stronger bonds with your family.
Click here for more resources to stay physically active during these times. Let's stay active and healthy together!
Seasonal Foods and Recipes
Some heart-healthy inspiration just for you!
Want to check out what’s in season? These resources can tell you exactly what fruits and vegetables are available where you live, at what time of year, and what recipes they work perfectly in!