Exercise programme for therapeutic effects

Press, 24 July 1986, Page 18

Exercise programme for therapeutic effects

It is now well established that a continuous exercise programme can produce many beneficial physiological and psychological effects. Exercise not only plays a role in prevention of physical and mental illness, but its therapeutic effects are also well recognised,

An inactive lifestyle, together with smoking, poor nutritional habits and stress, lies at the root of many of the ailments of modern times such as coronary heart disease, obesity, back pain, hypertension diabetes, depression and psychosomatic illness eq It is estimated that 60 per cent of those lining up for blood pressure pills, anti-depressants and other tablets suffered from life-style-related illnesses could considerably improve their health with a regular exercise programme. Pills treat the effects rather than the cause, whereas regular exercise can remove the cause.

Also, it is never too late start exercising. As long as it is done at the proper pace, exercise can be carried out by almost everyone.

Running and walking are the two obvious ways of exercising but swimming, cycling and workouts in fitness centres and gymnasiums are other forms of exercise.

Exercise not only helps in the cure and prevention of illnesses, but it improves the quality of life greatly.

“Sound mind in a sound body,” has been an acceptable principle since the days of ancient Greece. The average New Zealander does not participate in enough exercise or physical activity to come close to "sound mind in a sound body” principle.