Keeping FitThe questions below were raised by visitors to the STOMP (Straits Times Online Mobile Print) website in the AskST section of the website. eMenders doctors provided the answers to the questions raised as a public health education project. The information provided below is of a general nature and should not be treated as a replacement for medical advice. You should seek consultation from a medical or healthcare professional about your specific medical condition.
Question:
Why do we need to keep fit?
Answer:
Keeping fit through aerobic exercise offers significant health benefits. Increased activity helps to decrease body fat, increase cardiovascular health and in adults, can prevent type-2 diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.
Aerobic activities such as running and cycling improve circulation to the brain, increasing mental alertness. Muscle tone improves, and exercise also increases bone density, preventing osteoporosis when older.
Excellent aerobic activities involve all kinds of semi-intensive to intensive sports (tennis, squash, basketball, football and badminton), and recreational jogging, cycling and swimming.
Most authorities encourage exercising regularly for at least 30 minutes a day three times a week.