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Exercise

Exercise is any bodily activity that maintains or promotes physical fitness, overall health or wellness. Its benefits have been known for centuries and a Roman politician (Cicero 65BCE) once stated that 'It is exercise alone that supports the spirit, and keeps the mind in vigour'. 

 

Many communities used exercise as a means of survival whilst oppressed peoples have used exercise to lift their spirits, and to train their physical body for emancipation.

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Background

Muscles that are well trained will be able to do a good job when they are needed. Hence, exercise is generally a good activity to maintain body fitness and wellness. Both voluntary muscles (limbs) and involuntary muscles (heart) can be trained. A good training programme that keeps the body fit will also keep the psychological dimension fit. Indeed, a happy body is a happy mind.

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There are three main types:

  1. Aerobics:

    • Activities that use up more air (oxygen) than you would normally use. Since your heart and lungs have to supply this extra air, they get a lot of exercise in doing so, and they become more efficient. This builds up and strengthens your internal organs.

    • Examples are: running, power walking, tennis and swimming

  2. Anaerobics:

    • Activities that do not demand more air from your lungs and heart, but that develops strength in your physical muscles through resistance training. It builds up muscle mass, body mass, bone strength, body balance and co-ordination.

    • Examples include: weight training, and push-ups

  3. Flexibility:

    • Activities that stretch your physical muscles. They improve the body adaptability therefore reducing the chances of injury. The also improve the blood flow to the outer muscles. This is good for the muscles and the heart.

    • Examples include Yoga

 

  • Physical fitness activities should be explored alongside a review of the diet, since a good and balanced diet is essential for body development

 

  • Everyday activities like walking can be incorporated into the daily exercise schedule, and about 20 minutes of activities per day is essential for good wellbeing

Impact on General Wellbeing

When performed in moderation, and within recognised safety boundaries, exercise and fitness activities are generally beneficial to the wellbeing.

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Caution

  1. Too much exercise is bad for the wellbeing. Effects include

    • Muscle damage

    • Aches and Pains

    • Heart problems

    • Kidney problems and dark (or reddish) urine

    • Joint problems including Arthritis

    • Missing periods in females

    • Sleeplessness and irritability

  2. Exercise can be addictive, and can also be damaging to the heart and muscles

  3. It can cost a lot in time and money

Benefits

  • Good weight management

  • Good bone strength

  • Strengthens the Heart and Lungs

  • Strengthens the immune system

  • Increases life expectancy

  • Improves sleep and sleep pattern

  • May improve sexual competency and desirability

  • Lifts the spirits, and can reduce the chances or effects of depression

  • May reduce the chances of cancer

  • May improve survival in cancer

  • Boosts the brain

  • Reduces stress

Applicable Remedies >

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Further Reading

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