In the hectic bustle of modern times, exercise doesn't always make it to the top of a person's list of priorities.
Many people are busy trying to juggle jam-packed schedules, and a half an hour walk or visit to the gym doesn't always make it on the itinerary.
But according to the World Health Organization, adults aged 18-64 benefit from a mere 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week. That's only two and a half hours ó a week.
Alternatively, adults also benefit from just 75 minutes ó barely more than an hour ó of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week. A combination of vigorous and moderate-intensity workouts is also an option.
Either way, that's less than three hours a week.
Considering the average Canadian adult spends more time than that every day in front of a television ó for a total of about 30 hours a week, which doesn't even include screen time spent at the computer, tablet or smartphone ó surely somewhere in our schedules we can find a few minutes to exercise.
Especially those of us who are fortunate enough to reside in a place like Sundre, which has no shortage of available options for people to lead healthier lifestyles. During the summer, the local trails offer an ideal means to enjoy a pleasant walk while taking in fresh air. Others who feel more inclined to the challenge might jog or run, perhaps even bike.
During the winter, the trails can still be used for snowshoe or cross-country enthusiasts. Of course there's also the arena that offers public skate times.
Throughout the year, there's the Sundre Aquaplex indoor pool and fitness centre. For people who have problems with joints, water exercise is ideal. For people looking to bulk up, what better way than to lift weights ó the cost of a membership is a drop in the bucket compared to acquiring such equipment as is available there.
Additionally, there are local martial arts groups and yoga classes available to those who might be interested in trying something ó and also perhaps meeting someone ó new.
But remember ó making an effort to be more fit does not mean arduous workouts that leave you desperately gasping for breath and sore all over for the next week. Pushing too hard, especially if you're just starting, can actually have negative impacts. A 10-minute walk, or longer if you have the time and feel up for it, is a great start.
My better half and I have recently been trying a new exercise routine. It's a combination of moderate and vigorous exercise, usually about 30 to 40 minutes depending on the day's training regime.
At first, I couldn't even finish one workout for fear my heart would explode. Barely a month later, however, I find myself able to finish the exercises, albeit with a few breaks to catch my breath.
But even though I tend to drag my feet starting the exercise routine and struggle to get through it, I never regret how good it feels to get the blood and oxygen flowing ó it's invigorating and rather surprising how energetic one feels afterwards.
Either way, if a few minutes of exercise today mean fewer visits to the doctor tomorrow, it's worth it. Now if only I can stop myself from late-night snacking!
