 According to a new American Heart Association study, the lifestyle choices people make for their leisure time can affect their propensity toward obesity.
Most people know that if they exercise, they can better manage their weight. But it is often thought that those that are prone to obesity can't do much to affect those genes that lead to that propensity.
This new American Heart Association study introduced last week indicates that taking a brisk walk for an hour (or doing another exercise of the similar intensity for an hour) a day can actually impact the effect of those genes..In fact, it can weaken the effect of those genes by half.
And what was the worst activity to impact those genes that lead to a propensity for obesity?
According to the study, those who sit and watch 40 or more hours of television a week increased that propensity by 50%. Now, obviously, those who watch television while exercising or having already exercised are a different story. But the study found that most people who are sedentary and prone to obesity tend to sit and watch more television than those that are active. The problem is more sitting and less moving. If you look at our lifestyles from an evolutionary perspective, it is clear that humans are meant to move and not sit for most of the day.
This new study underscores how something as simple as getting up and taking a walk and can positively impact your health. In addition to the positive impacts on the genes that lead to a propensity for obesity, walking has other health benefits. Among the many benefits, walking helps you lower cholesterol and blood pressure, manage weight, improve muscle density and lift your mood.
Just Get Up and Move
You don't have to run a marathon or become an aerobics addict. Just take a brisk walk. Walking is a natural form of exercise that doesn't require any special training. You can fit in a walk in almost any location and any climate -- indoors or out.
1. Have a good pair of walking shoes.
Just like any form of exercise, make sure you have good shoes that are supportive and appropriate for walking. Most any shoe store will offer a variety of appropriate walking shoes. Having the right shoes will help assure that you are using correct posture and getting the shock absorption and support you need.
2. Wear the right clothing.
If you are going for a brisk walk, wear temperature-appropriate comfortable clothing that will allow you to move and breathe. If you plan to walk early in the morning or at night, wear something reflective.
3. Take along some company.
If you need motivation, take along some music, a friend or your dog. Walking is a great exercise that allows you to incorporate some social time or much needed time alone.
4. Take the road less traveled.
When you can, choose to walk. Skip the elevator and take the stairs. Run your errands on foot. Choose that parking space that makes you walk more. Take a walk at lunch instead of eating out with your coworkers.
Walking is any easy way to fit exercise into your daily life. It is important to note that if you haven't exercised in years, it is always good to speak with your physician first and let him or her know you are embarking on a new exercise routine.
If you want to learn more about how exercise can help you manage your weight, contact us today.
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