Episode #9 | Build Beyond: Physical Activity is Healthcare
- christophernetley
- May 27, 2024
- 2 min read
Tune in:
Episode Summary
Exercise and physical activity have numerous health benefits and are considered forms of healthcare. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends starting where you are and using what you have to engage in physical activity. Physical activity improves mood, sleep, cardiovascular health, immune function, cognitive function, and overall well-being. It also reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as heart problems, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Exercise has a positive impact on mental health, including depression, by increasing endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin levels in the brain. Despite the known benefits, a majority of Americans do not meet the recommended physical activity guidelines. Lack of time and knowledge, as well as fear of failure and judgment, are common barriers to physical activity. However, finding creative ways to incorporate movement into daily routines and seeking guidance from fitness professionals or healthcare providers can help overcome these barriers.
Key Takeaways
Exercise and physical activity have numerous health benefits and are considered forms of healthcare.
Physical activity improves mood, sleep, cardiovascular health, immune function, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
Exercise reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as heart problems, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Physical activity has a positive impact on mental health, including depression, by increasing endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin levels in the brain.
Lack of time, knowledge, and confidence, as well as fear of failure and judgment, are common barriers to physical activity.
Finding creative ways to incorporate movement into daily routines and seeking guidance from fitness professionals or healthcare providers can help overcome these barriers.
References
American College of Sports Medicine: Exercise is Medicine
NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Advancing Research on Botanicals and Other Natural Products, April 2024
US Food & Drug Administration: Questions & Answers on Dietary Supplements
PMID: 30418471
PMID: 32207799
Ratey, J. J., & Hagerman, E. (2013). Spark: The revolutionary new science of exercise and the brain. Little, Brown.
US Department of Health and Human Services: Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans
PMID: 27707741
PMID: 32069804
PMID: 30131332
Episode Chapters
00:00 Exercise as Healthcare: The Benefits of Physical Activity
02:13 The Impact of Exercise on Mental Health and Depression
08:09 Physical Activity vs. Dietary Supplements: Cost and Effectiveness
13:12 The Importance of Daily Step Count for Overall Health
26:37 Overcoming Barriers to Physical Activity
Where to find Chris Netley
Instagram: @chrisnetleyDC
YouTube: @chrisnetleyDC
X (formerly Twitter): @chrisnetleyDC
Facebook: Chris Netley, DC
Comments