Many people buy lottery tickets. I’m not sure what the odds are but I don’t think they are too good. What if I told you that a $50.00 dollar investment and a small commitment of your time might increase your chance of not just living longer, but living longer with a higher quality of life than those who chose a more sedentary lifestyle.
The $50.00 investment I mention is the purchase of a good pair of walking shoes and the time commitment of 20 minutes a day. Walking is the cheapest and probably one of the best effective measures you can take to prevent chronic disease.
There is a mountain of research findings showing that the most physically active people tend to face the lowest incidents of chronic disease, including heart disease, hypertension, type-2 diabetes and even some types of cancer.
Even more acute problems, such as infections, often can be prevented through frequent exercise, such as walking, and finds that moderate exercise has been shown to boost the immune system. On the other hand, sedentary living is a major risk factor for several chronic diseases. Federal health experts currently recommend at least a 30-minute daily walk at least five times a week.
The idea is to walk as much as you can whenever you can, some people especially those pressed for time may want to break daily walks into smaller 10 and 15 minute increments scattered throughout the day. This comparatively minor investment in walking shoes could pay huge dividends over the long haul.
The upfront payment’ $50.00 for walking shoes and 30 minutes of your time is a lot cheaper than the steep medical costs you may pay later on after developing hypertension or diabetes through lack of exercise.
Over time, this walking program could be expanded into a full-fledged jogging program, which is more efficient in burning calories and exercising the heart, although you should consult a physician first. Walking and jogging are not the only option.
Other effective options may include TV exercise programs, a fitness DVD or even some of the new video games that require exercise to play. Other options include exercise bicycles or elliptical trainers, which often can be bought comparatively cheaply off the internet, at a yard sale or through classified ads.
Even developing a morning calisthenics program-push-ups, crunches, jumping jacks, and knee bends can be effective.
The important thing to remember is that there are a number of inexpensive and effective ways to stay fit.
Exercise is no guarantee you’re not going to get sick, but, in the end, it’s going to reduce your chances of developing chronic disease and acute illness, which, in turn, may make the lack of health insurance somewhat easier to bear.
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