Why be physically active?

​Why be physically active?
 
“Physical Activity is the single most useful thing that individuals can do to maintain their health and function and quality of life.” (World Health Organisation, 1997)
 
Chair based exercise classes focus on aiding the muscles used in everyday activity and is performed at a pace that suits participants, but EXTEND classes with Tracy go that bit further including work that challenges balance, knee and hip mobility, transfer of weight and working with hoops, clubs and balls adds a giggle as well as music you can sing to (so you are not holding your breath!).
 
What will being physically active for an hour do for you?

• Exercise will help to improve your circulation stimulating the circulation of blood to all organs including the brain
• Improves stamina and muscle power. The more you move the more you are able to do and for longer. 
• Encourages the body to remove waste quicker- 
• Help you to lose weight by burning calories
• Help to lower your blood pressure
• Keeps the heart muscle strong - the heart pumps the blood round the body and exercise increases the demand for oxygen (carried by the red blood cells) and the removal of carbon dioxide. The harder the body works the harder the heart pumps, but like all muscle exercise strengthens other muscles in your body, it helps your heart muscle become more efficient and better able to pump blood throughout your body.
• Working the muscles keeps them from wasting away and strong muscles hold the joints in correct position so there is less wear and tear on the joints
• Moving joints helps to “nourish” them and helps to maintain a good, pain free, range of movement
• Exercise releases “feel good” endorphins in the brain which help you to feel cheerful and positive
• Improves posture. Poor posture can have an effect on many parts of your body from headaches, hip ache and tension in the muscles. 
• Prevents constipation and bloating and will improve your metabolism. Regular physical activity stimulates the gut. Turning the body (waist movements) will massage the gut but exercise also increases blood flow to all your muscles including those in the digestive system so allowing food to pass through it much quicker. 
• Physical activity can also help take your mind off your worries and reduces stress. Regular exercise can help you to relax, improve your sleep and help to lower the symptoms of mild depression and anxiety.   
  

 
So, what have you go to lose? Try a class and see if you can feel the benefits.