U.S. Public Health Service Cmdr. Aileen Buckler, TRICARE population health physician, TRICARE Management Activity
Written by U.S. Public Health Service Cmdr. Aileen Buckler, TRICARE population health physician, TRICARE Management Activity
Your health can be affected – positively or negatively – through the lifestyle choices you make every day. If you focus on consuming fewer calories, making informed food choices and being physically active, you can help reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases like diabetes and obesity.
May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, sponsored by the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. Participation in sports and staying physically active can strengthen your body and mind!
All branches of the military are seeing members, dependents and retirees that have problems with their weight. TRICARE is encouraging all beneficiaries to “Get Fit” this month! Our Get Fit campaign was started to increase obesity awareness and get you moving. We launched an updated Get Fit web page with a new section focusing on monthly healthy living tips. The slideshow presentations provide suggestions for activities and information to help you make healthier food choices and stay active. Each month, we also introduce a new health theme to promote work-life balance.
Fitting regular exercise into your daily schedule may seem difficult at first, but it’s easier than you think! Can you take the stairs instead of the elevator? How about walking on the golf course instead of using a cart? Committing to a program like the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award can help you stay motivated, as can finding a workout buddy.
How much physical activity do you need?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 420 minutes or more of physical activity a week for children 6-17 years old. This can include: playground games, basketball and soccer. For adults 18-64 years old, 150 minutes of physical activity is recommended each week. Yes, that’s a lot of biking, swimming and lifting weights but exercise isn’t something you should give up as you get older.
As we age, regular physical activity is one of the most important things we can do for our health. It can help prevent the onset of many health problems. If you’re 65 years of age or older, generally fit and have no limiting health conditions, 150 minutes of physical activity each week is also good for you. This can include: heavy gardening (digging, shoveling), walking and aerobic activity. Picking physical activities you enjoy and that match your abilities, will help you stick with them.
Moderate activity levels are safe for most people. But if you have a chronic health condition such as heart disease, arthritis or a disability, talk with your doctor about the types and amounts of physical activities that are right for you. Physical activity is also important during pregnancy, but, again, talk to your doctor to find out what’s appropriate.
Remember to get your kids involved in the fun! Take a peak at First Lady Michelle Obama’s website, Let’s Move! geared toward ending childhood obesity in the United States. You play a key role in making healthy choices for them and teaching them to make healthy choices for themselves!
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