Friday, February 24, 2017

Common Sense Health and Fitness

Common Sense Health and Fitness

Exercise Year-Round

This picture my brother, Rich, his wife, Tina, and my beautiful nieces, Luciana and Alyssa, illustrates some of the beauty of Southwest Florida that attracts so many people to visit on vacation, live here seasonally, or year-round.  It also reminds me of a common conversation that I have had with my patients over the years:



                    When my snowbirds come down in the fall, I ask them about their exercise regimens. It is usually still stiflingly hot, and they often tell me, “When it cools off, I will be much more active walking and exercising.  Common sense tells us that we must make our plans year-round for our diet, exercise, and overall fitness.  If it is too hot walking indoors in fitness center or even a mall or department store, can keep us active.  Just like we have contingency plans for rain on a wedding day, we must plan out how we are going to stay active and fit year-round.  Think about a variety of ways to stay active that take into account the weather, the traffic, or your crazy work schedules. Pick an exercise that you enjoy and won’t injury yourself doing. Aim for 45 minutes of cardiovascular exercise four to five days a week.  Consult with your physician before initiating a new exercise program. Set reasonable goals for yourselves and make it fun. Exercise with a friend.  Whatever it takes to make it happen. I promise you will feel better physically and mentally. Listen to your body, if you need to rest or take a day off. Whether or it’s 20 in New York City or 105 with the heat index in Southwest Florida, come up with a plan and stick to it! You will be glad that you did.

Have a safe and relaxing weekend,
Paul Tritel, MD