Daily exercise has the power to…..

Walk Kansas began yesterday with team members all across Kansas participating  for 8 weeks to increase physical activity and eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grain foods.  In honor of Walk Kansas walkers everywhere, here’s a look at the benefits of regular exercise.  Daily exercise has the power to…

• Reduce the risk of heart disease by improving blood circulation throughout the body
• Keep weight under control
• Improve blood cholesterol levels
• Prevent and manage high blood pressure
• Prevent bone loss
• Boost energy level
• Help manage stress
• Release tension
• Improve the ability to fall asleep quickly and sleep well
• Improve self-image
• Counter anxiety and depression and increase enthusiasm and optimism
• Increase muscle strength, increasing the ability to do other physical activities
• In older people, help delay or prevent chronic illnesses and diseases associated with aging and maintian quality of life and independence longer.

Any physical activity can help your heart and provide these benefits.  Choose activites that are fun, not exhausting.  Add variety– develop a repertoire of several activities that you can enjoy.  That way, exercise will never seem boring or routine.

Try to make physical activity a habit, but be flexible.  If you miss an exercise opportunity, work activity into your day another way.

According to the American Heart Association, the shape you’re in could save your life.  So be active every day!

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