We get it. Thinking about physical activity doesn't always bring up a lot of excited feelings. Maybe it’s hard to find the time or you don’t want to get sweaty. Perhaps you have limited mobility or you’re just too tired from a long day. But we’re going to lay out some reasons that you might not have considered for why it’s so important to be physically active. Hopefully, reading this will motivate you to spring into action!

Physical activity means any movement done by your body that uses energy. The more body parts moving, the better! Adults should try for at least 150 minutes of physical activity over the course of one week. Minutes spent doing activities like walking while running errands, raking leaves or running around the park with your kids all count toward this goal throughout the week. 

We want to start with a note about safety. It’s important to start slowly. Starting slow will help you avoid getting hurt, so you can continue being active each day. You might start with 5 or 7 minutes of low intensity activity like slowly walking, then add a little time (more minutes) and/or intensity (walk faster) each day or week. You should talk to your healthcare provider before starting any activity routine, especially if you haven’t been active in a while.

Benefits of physical activity:

• People who are more physically active sleep better. When you sleep better, you’re more rested and relaxed, so you wake up feeling like you can face anything.
• Physical activity is a natural way to get rid of stress and anxiety. Not only does it release chemicals in your brain that make you feel better, but it also takes your mind off your worries and helps you think more clearly.
• Staying active on a regular basis allows you to do more things. Whether it’s playing with your kids or grandchildren, keeping up with everyone on a family hike or balancing your way across an uneven floor, being active on most days will make it easier to do more of what you want to do now and as you get older.
• Moving your body more can lower risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, arthritis and high blood pressure.
• Getting out and being active can be a great chance to connect with friends, old and new. Being active and social with others makes it more enjoyable and motivates you to keep at it. 

Here are some ways you can include physical activity in your daily routine. Remember to make it fun!

• Play tag with your kids.
• Park far away from buildings to get a few more steps.
• During the work day, use a standing or walking desk or take a brisk walk after lunch.
• Do some seated chair exercises with an exercise band, weights, or even milk jugs filled with water.
• Get up and dance during the commercial breaks of your favorite show.
• Stand, march in place or walk around during phone calls.
• Swim, bike, go for a walk or play lawn games instead of watching TV.
• Get off the bus a stop or two early and walk the rest of the way.
• Take the stairs part or all the way up instead of elevators.

The more you move, the easier it will become over time. So, find some activities that you enjoy. There are countless reasons to be more physically active every day. What’s yours?