The dangers of living an inactive lifestyle

We always talk about the benefits of healthy living and how much better it makes you feel to live a more active lifestyle. Unfortunately, this only seems to interest those that appear to be already involved in exercise. But what about those of you who have no interest in exercising or those who have given it a try and didn’t feel the difference right away?

Many people think that they are healthy because they can eat as much fast food as they like without putting on any weight. But being healthy is more than just how you look. Have you ever considered what a poor diet and lack of exercise are really doing to the inside of your body? What effect is your sedentary lifestyle having on you, and what is it doing to you in the long run?

There is a lot of information readily available about the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle, how great it will make you feel inside and out, not to mention the prevention of various ailments, but what about the information about the dangers we subject ourselves to while maintaining an inactive lifestyle?

Did you know continuing to remain inactive can be hazardous to your overall well-being? Countless studies have shown a correlation between leading a sedentary lifestyle and suffering from feelings of depression and anxiety. It also causes us to be at a greater risk of developing serious health complications such as high blood pressure, diabetes, coronary heart disease and certain types of cancer.

When we live a sedentary lifestyle, our bodies slowly begin to deteriorate; lack of physical activity wreaks havoc on our ability to do just about anything. Our bones start to become brittle, which increases our risk of developing osteoporosis. Our muscles become weak and cannot respond to the demands placed on them.

Although you may be able to run for the bus now, lack of exercise will lead to a lack of energy, and one day you will find yourself unable to accomplish the simplest tasks.

If you have been inactive for many years, it may seem overwhelming and impossible to start your fitness journey now, but you can always start slowly by going for a quick 10-minute walk around the garden or a walk along the beach. Involve the family, and go for a swim. It doesn’t matter your age or fitness level – working out is something that everyone can do to help you feel happier, stronger, and full of energy. Find something you enjoy doing; keeping active doesn’t have to be a chore, but it is something that has to be done.

So get up and do something today that you will thank yourself for in the future, and remember to be smart, stay healthy and exercise.

Follow this week’s workout below to start your exercise journey with The Gleaner . To view, the full workout, visit our Instagram page @JamaicaGleaner.

Stay active 5-minute workout

(30 seconds per exercise for three rounds)

Flutter kicks

Dead bug

V-Sit up