News You Can Use

Staying active makes life easier to manage

University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Jennifer Rousey
July 18, 2003

STARKVILLE, Miss.—To get a sufficient amount of daily exercise, you don’t need to sweat through an advanced aerobics class or sprint five miles.

“A lot of people think there’s no point in any exercise if they don’t do strenuous activity,” says Joseph A. Chromiak of Mississippi State. “That’s a common misconception, because any kind of activity is beneficial.”

Chromiak, an assistant professor in the university’s department of health, physical education, recreation and sport, says people can make simple changes in their daily routines to include exercise.

“The key is to do something,” Chromiak says. “You don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of time or exert a lot of energy.”

He suggests completing “at least 30 minutes” of physical activity per day. “Find something that you enjoy and do it routinely,” Chromiak adds.

Stressing the importance of making exercise a priority and working toward greater fitness goals, he provides some simple workout tips. They include:

—Parking the car farther from where you are going and walking the remaining distance.

—Taking stairs instead of elevators.

—Completing activities around the house.

—Doing sit-ups and push-ups at home, as well as daily stretching exercises.

—Using a push lawn mower instead of a riding model.

Regular exercise maintains a healthy blood pressure reading, prevents heart problems and helps lower cholesterol levels, Chromiak says.

“Being active makes life’s daily activities easier,” he observes. “Health and fitness is a lifestyle; create a routine where exercise becomes a part of life.”