An article in the Wall Street Journal (1-5-10-WSJ) focuses on the importance of exercise in our lives everyday.  ‘The Hidden Benefits of Exercise‘ by Laura Landro highlights why we need to refocus attention on creating a variety of forms of exercise.  ‘Just do it’ takes on special meaning when we realize how spending 30 to 60 minutes a day can protect us against a variety of illnesses, from the common cold to cancer.

The federal government issued guidelines in 2008 and is developing a national plan to encourage following the guidelines.  Moderate forms of activity include “ballroom and line dancing; biking on level ground or with a few hills; canoeing; gardening (raking, trimming shrubs); tennis (doubles); brisk walking; water aerobics.”  More vigorous exercise includes “biking faster than 10 miles an hour; ‘heavy’ gardening (digging and hoeing); tennis (singles); hiking uphill; jogging or running.” Incorporating gardening as part of a regular exercise regime will accomplish our need for exercise in a creative and stress-reducing manner. We might as well have fun while we are exercising.  The fruits of our labor might just be some special vegetables for the table.

Exercise programs also

One of the benefits of exercise can include fresh vegetables

offer benefits at any age and can be especially important for people over 40.  The WSJ article references the publication “Fit to Live” by Pamela Peeke, MD.  Dr. Peeke discusses how, as we age, ‘physical strength, endurance, flexibility and balance begin to decline.’ Including regular exercise as a part of our daily routine can help to slow the aging process. The complete WSJ article can be found at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704350304574638331243027174.html?mod=WSJ_hp_mostpop_read