Learning more about exercise together

My thoughts on exercise

Imagine if you will being me -1997 New York Medical School lecture auditorium, as if it were yesterday.  Completely enlightened in a special way when discovering the powerful tool that exercise provides toward the goal of longevity and wellness.  Exercise carries profound influence on human physiology, affecting nearly every measureable dimension of health:

*Exercise reduces weight by burning calories

*Excercise reduces blood pressure and heart rate, reducing both stroke risk and heart disease

*Lowers lipid metabolism, clearing harmful plaque accumulation

*Reduces anxiety, improving emotional steadiness

*It strengthens overall identity, posture, and confidence

These benefits stem from observable biologic changes, as was taught to me on that day in 1997.  When exercising, new arterial branches develop, lowering vascular resistance.  The heart undergoes structural remodeling, allowing enhanced ejection from the ventricle with less overall effort.  Consequently, the more one exercises the easier it becomes and the benefits increase exponentially.  

A meaningful exercise pattern begins with safety.  Consult your own personal medical doctor although the principles are straight forward.  For an otherwise healthy adult, elevating heart rate into the 140s range for approximately 20 minutes twice per week provides enormous benefit with modest commitment.  As one ages, maximal heart rate may need to be adjusted although exercising helps to reduce the strain on the heart.  Activities such as swimming, bicycling, elliptical training, and stair climbing, from my view, are ideal choices.  In addition, from my experience sailing is terrific for core body and likely explains why I see so many healthy older individuals at the yacht club.  Certainly, stretching before and after exercise is recommended.  Moreover, paying attention to your body to reduce strain and seeking guidance as needed are good strategies.  

The Conclusion

Exercise, when performed rhythmically and in the overall spirit of wellness as our legacy, becomes not simply a health strategy but a stabilizing force in life.  It preserves body function, reduces systemic decline, and promotes a stronger emotional outlook.  When properly applied exercise helps us live longer, healthier, and happier lives.

Share with us your ideas on exercise and be part of our lasting 21st century legacy!