By Todd Wisser, M.D.
Evergreen Internal and Family Medicine
Colorado is something special. There is an abundance health and youth, and a feeling of agelessness. The most common question I get is, “Doc, do you have a cure for this ’growing old thing?’ ”
The “cure” is simple – exercise 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.
You don’t need to purchase a gym membership, or sign up for a 100 mile bicycle ride to accomplish this. Just step outside and take a walk. We need to support our body and allow it to pursue its natural tendency toward health. The best way to do this is through movement.
If there ever were a “fountain of youth” or “a magic pill,” it would be exercise. Research bears this out with numerous studies showing the positive effects of exercise. Exercise has been proven to reduce the risk of premature death, death from heart disease, risk of stroke, risk of diabetes, risk of high blood pressure, risk of colon cancer and feelings of depression and anxiety. Exercise helps to control weight and build healthy bones, muscles and joints.
There is no cost for this “medication.” In fact, it has an added bonus of helping to reduce your need for other medications.
We are blessed to live in a playground ripe for outdoor healthy pursuits, with a climate that doesn’t allow for excuses. Go for a walk or a hike, bike, canoe a lake or river, try stand up paddle boarding, skiing, snow shoeing — the list is almost endless.
Remember, life is a marathon, not a sprint. If exercise is new or you are re-entering the exercise world, do so slowly and cautiously. The goal is finding a sustainable level of exercise so that you do not injure yourself. Be patient and persistent and the rewards will be great.
Safe pursuits and hope to see you on the trails!
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