The Importance of Exercise During Covid-19

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Exercise YT

Recently the World Health Organization released guidelines for physical exercise for people of all ages.

For adults aged 18-64, the recommendations are as follows:

  • Should do at least 150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity, or at least 75–150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity, or an equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity activity throughout the week

  • Should also do muscle-strengthening activities at a moderate or greater intensity that involve all major muscle groups on 2 or more days a week, as these provide additional health benefits.

  • May increase moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity to more than 300 minutes; or do more than 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity; or an equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity activity throughout the week for additional health benefits.

  • Should limit the amount of time spent being sedentary. Replacing sedentary time with physical activity of any intensity (including light intensity) provides health benefits, and to help reduce the detrimental effects of high levels of sedentary behavior on health, all adults and older adults should aim to do more than the recommended levels of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/physical-activity

These recommendations come at a critical time for us, seeing that many of us in Chicago are isolating due to surges in Covid-19. Unfortunately with isolation comes a sedentary lifestyle, which can lead to health problems in itself.

Studies are showing that just two weeks of a sedentary lifestyle can lead to health problems including decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, poor sleep quality, and mental health issues. Due to covid 19 and the winter season approaching, it is very easy to become complacent with a sedentary lifestyle. Don’t give in!

To combat this, it is imperative that we listen to the WHO guidelines and keep up with our exercise regimens. Staying active will not only help combat illness but will also decrease our stress and improve our quality of life.

Quit putting off exercising until the pandemic ends and take action today!

Dealing with pain or a recent injury that is preventing you from being able to keep with your exercise regimen? Reach out to a professional at React today!

React is still open and seeing patients. Not comfortable coming in just yet? We also provide virtual telehealth services where we can evaluate you and help come up with a training plan that will get you back into tip-top shape.