There is a health and health care crisis in America today. Only 15% of Americans meet the minimal standard of exercising vigorously for 30 minutes, 3 times a week. We spend more on health care, almost $7,600 per person in America, than any other country in the world. We lead the world in heart disease, primarily because of our sedentary lifestyles and poor diets. We must take personal responsibility to improve our health and fitness, starting today!
Made To Move
Our bodies are wonderful, fantastic mechanisms that are designed and made for one thing: movement. We are made to move. Televisons, computers, and cars have led to a decline in physical activity, but this is totally contrary to our physical nature. Your mental and physical health and well-being are directly connected to how often and how intensely you move. Physical activity and exercise are the keys to your health.
The Dire Consequences Of Inactivity
A lack of physical activity accelerates the aging process and makes us more susceptible to illness and disease. It robs us of our energy and vitality. Our jobs and careers will suffer because of reduced performance, increased absenteeism, lower productivity, and a poor mental attitude. Our relationships with our family and friends will be adversely affected, too.
Ultimately, inactivity leads to serious long-term health problems such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Inactivity will also cause a more rapid decline in our muscle mass, strength, and bone density as we age. This leads to impaired balance and falls,a leading cause of disability and death among seniors.
Inactivity increases our mortality and severely limits our functional longevity as well.
Wellness Programs Make A Difference
Studies have shown that wellness programs improve the health and fitness of employees. They are also highly cost effective. Data from General Mills, Bank of America, Pacific Bell, and Prudential indicated a range of $3-$6 in savings for every $1 spent on health promotion and fitness programs. The savings come from lower absenteeism, higher productivity, and a reduction in health care insurance claims.
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