By Dr. Xifaras, MD – Tufts Medical Center
Happy New Year!
The New Year, 2012, is finally here. With a new year usually comes New Year’s resolutions. Most resolutions involve making changes that lead to a healthier life. As part of the FitClub34 program, you are already doing a great job committing to a healthier lifestyle by being physically active.
It would also be great time to join Paul Pierce with his Million Hour Challenge! This challenge encourages kids to move for 1 million hours in 2012 by jumping, running, dancing and playing. Although this initiative is in Boston, see if you can get your friends and family in your community, even if you don’t live in Boston, to move as well and join this initiative.
Physical activity is so important for your body and mind. The many benefits of
being physically active include:
1. Strengthen your bones and muscles
2. Maintain a healthy weight
3. Prevent heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes and other diseases
4. Improve your mood, feel good hormones such as endorphins, get released when you exercise
5. Increase attention and ability to concentrate and learn in school, kids who get daily physical activity tend to perform better in school
6. Increased energy, even though it takes energy to be active, your energy will actually increase after exercising
7. Improves sleep at night, so your body can recharge for the next day
8. AND IT IS FUN!!!
Best wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year!!!
Athena Xifaras, MD – Tufts Medical Center
Click to read more about Athena
Tags: 2012, dr. xifaras, guest blogger, tufts