By Tammy Toor
Happy new year – we hope you all had a fun and safe holiday season.
Now that 2015 is here, perhaps you, like me, have set some health and fitness goals.
Here are reasons to get or keep fit:
You’ll be happier Love it or hate it, making regular exercise a habit is good for our mental well-being.
Although happiness is a pretty subjective concept, researchers have concluded that one huge predictor of personal happiness is physical health.
The ability to ward off sickness and disease, maintain a hormonal balance and manage stress all contribute to self-satisfaction.
That’s one reason why people who work out might be happier.
You’ll be healthier Besides the obvious decrease in instances of heart disease and diabetes among regular exercisers, fitness increases the production of antibodies that destroy unwelcome invaders like bacteria and viruses.
People who stay physically active are generally better equipped to combat sickness and stress – key components to overall health.
You’ll be more productive When you exercise, you are increasing blood flow to the brain which can help sharpen your awareness and make you more ready to tackle your next big project.
Exercise can also give you more energy. Having more energy means you will feel more awake and able to get more accomplished.
There are a number of programs and amenities available at Parks, Recreation and Environment to get and keep you healthy, from registered fitness programs to drop-in opportunities at the pools, arenas, gymnasiums and weight rooms.
Take a look at what is available and incorporate fitness into your daily life. It doesn’t take much – as little as 30 minutes a day – but the benefits will stay with you your entire life.
I can testify how fitness has benefited my life – both physically and emotionally, and I know it can do the same for you.
For more information on fitness options, visit our website at www.nanaimo.ca or call us at 250-756-5200.
This year, let’s follow the mantra: Commit to be fit.
Tammy Toor is a communications specialist with the City of Nanaimo.
