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From the Therapist’s Desk: February 2022

February 2022

Each month we’ll bring you a note from one of our therapists. It might be something they’re reading, learning or just something they want to share.

This month’s note is from Connor Blythe, PT, DPT:

As the cold weather settles in, studies have shown that the winter time reduces physical activity and motivation in adults. Combining the busyness and overindulgence of the holiday season with the reduced activity creates a bad combination for your physical health. However, you don’t need to fall into these bad habits as there are plenty of ways to exercise indoors. A few examples of these could be walking stairs, mall walking, at-home video/YouTube workout classes, yoga, and much more.

ACSM and CDC guidelines state that each week, every adult should perform at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic physical activity. Or they can perform vigorous physical activity for a minimum of 20 minutes three days a week.  Simple activities like brisk walking, water aerobics, or even vacuuming count as moderate activities. Where vigorous activities are more in line with examples of lap swimming, jogging/running, or stair stepping. All you need to do is do your exercise in 10 minute bursts to count towards your weekly goal and receive the true benefits. While cardiovascular exercise is great, also keep in mind that you should also strive to perform muscle strengthening activities twice a week that work all major muscle groups. The CDC estimates that roughly 80% of adults do not meet these exercise goals!

I often remind my patients of this quote made by Dr. Robert H. Butler:

“If exercise could be purchased in a pill, it would be the single most widely prescribed and beneficial medicine in the nation.” 

Exercise is incredibly important, don’t let winter slow you down. Talk to your physical therapist today about getting started on a path to improved health through movement and exercise.

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