Choose to Move! Why Physical Activity Changes Everything

I'm going to ask a personal question here – how active are you? Research suggests that about 80% of American adults don't get the recommended amount of exercise. This is NOT good news since physical inactivity can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, depression, anxiety, colon cancer, and high blood pressure.

I have to admit that, until a few years ago, I was firmly in the inactive category. My mantra was, "I hate to get hot and sweaty." It wasn't until my weight had ballooned up, I realized what an effort walking was, and grasped how painful my joints were becoming that I reluctantly took action.

What Choosing to Move Did for Me

I almost don't recognize myself from 7-8 years ago. Along with being over 50 pounds lighter I'm experiencing these benefits:

• My clothes fit much better – and look amazing!
• I can climb stairs and walk without panting for breath
• My joints are pain free
• My blood pressure is within normal limits
• My blood sugar is normal (both my parents were diabetic)
• I run 4 mornings a week – and actually enjoy it! (This was a shocker)
• I feel energetic, strong, and happy

None of the above happened overnight – it took months of choosing to do things differently. It also wasn't completely painless. But I can say with complete sincerity that getting up off the couch and moving regularly was one of the best choices I ever made. What about you?