One of the many things we’ve learned during the COVID-19 pandemic is the importance of spending time outdoors and staying as active as possible. This is still great advice as we begin to resume our pre-pandemic lives.
The American Heart Association recommends adults get 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week. What comes to mind when you hear this? Thirty minutes of agony? Waking with soreness the following day? Torture by treadmill?
Fitting Exercise Into Your Schedule
For many in our community and beyond, the idea of adding exercise to days already filled with work, caring for family members, and carrying on the business of life sounds overwhelming—like something that could take away time from a day already too full. When I talk about exercise recommendations with my patients, they often respond, "Doc, I’m too busy to exercise."
Making Physical Activity Fun
I often enjoying hiking and biking the Northwest Lancaster County River Trail just outside of Marietta. The scenery is beautiful and yes…the appealing environment makes a difference!
Community resources like hiking trails and parks allow people to step out their door and do something easy that keeps them healthy and happy. Simple exercise like walking is a good dose of medicine.
Do What You Enjoy
Now, is riding a bike on a trail every day the answer for everyone, and the only way to get that 150 minutes a week of exercise? Certainly not. However, it does provide one more way to be more active as individuals and as families.
Finding what each of us enjoys doing for exercise can add quality to our days as we get out and move. As we emerge from COVID-19, I see people running, riding tandem bicycles, walking, skateboarding, and even roller skating on the trail.
Remember…one size does not fit all. Find activities that are fun for you and add quality to your day. It might even involve a trail.