Activity is Key to a Healthy Lifestyle
March 1999

Dr. George Heathcote

Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician

Active Chiropractic in Aurora, Ohio (330) 995-8631

Activity is the key to a healthy lifestyle. Many studies have been done showing the health benefits of continued exercise. This is for any age group - especially seniors. Despite this proof, most of us choose to remain "stagnant". It is easier to read a book than to venture out for that walk. While that book may "exercise your mind" , that walk is the healthier choice.

Most of my patients claim that the hardest part is getting started. I tell them the first step is to start by choosing an exercise that you truly enjoy doing, it can be walking, swimming, bicycling, or dancing. Then the next step is to get a friend to exercise with you. Although not necessary, a friend does help to get you motivated. Once you have an exercise selected, you need to formalize the event. Get a large wall calendar and schedule out your exercise routine--in red pen. Make sure you schedule it at least three times per week, (four is better), for a minimum of 20 minutes each time. It is important to point out that you need to make sure you have the right "equipment". If walking is your exercise of choice, make sure you have a good supportive walking shoe.

Now you are ready to go! You will need to start out with a good stretch before you start your routine. Focus primarily on the areas specific to the exercise, for example, your arms and legs while swimming. A good length of time to stretch is 10-15 minutes. Start your routine out slow and work yourself into the exercise. Make sure while you are exercising you can carry on a conversation with your friend without getting too winded-- I call this the "Talk Test". If you find yourself too winded to talk, you need to slow down your pace. Once you start exercising regularly, you will find that you endurance and speed improves over time, but always resort back to the "Talk Test. End your routine just like you started with a good 10-15 minute stretch and you are well on your way to a healthier lifestyle!

Remember that it is always a good idea to consult with your physician before you start any new exercise routine, especially if you have any current medical conditions.