3 minute read
MEN’S TOP 3 HEALTH CONCERNS
By Christina Giese Photo by Alexander Sinn on Unsplash
Did you know that the top 3 health concerns for men are cardiovascular disease, obesity and depression?
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All three of these things have something in common in helping reduce their risks.
Physical Activity.
I began my own fitness journey over three years ago. Although I am not a male, I can relate to the overweight and mental health aspect. After I had my third child, my confidence dropped to below zero. My energy and mood were non-existent. I made a choice to change me for me, to prove to my children that taking care of your body also involved taking care of your mind. In the end, it helped me take care of my family. Recently, I decided I wanted to share this passion, in hopes that I too can inspire someone. I decided to become a trainer.
Since Covid-19 began one year ago, it has become clear that physical activity is highly sought after since most gyms are under lockdown or under very high restrictions. In Alberta, it is currently limited to 1 on 1 training.
Physical fitness reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease by increasing cardiac muscle strength. This means that as the heart grows stronger, hopefully along with other parts of your body, it becomes more efficient. It pumps more blood in one single beat and, therefore, requires less work. How can you tell? As your fitness regime becomes more consistent, you will notice a lower resting heart rate. A lower resting heart rate and stronger heart muscles reduces cardiovascular disease.
In addition to cardiovascular health, obesity has increased since many are restricted to less outings. Pair that with cold weather and you have a significant increase in obesity or overweight people.
Physical fitness is not going to cure obesity, but it will help you reduce some unwanted weight, alleviate pressure on the joints, and aid in many other health related diseases.
The big topic I want to discuss today is mental health.
In men’s health, it seems to be a taboo topic. Stereotypes such as “you’re too weak” or fear of being “feminine”. Everyone endures stress in their lives, one which I know all too well. Why should this be any different for men? Men carry just as much burden as women; they just carry it differently.
If I were to ask all the men in my life what stresses them most in their everyday lives, their answers would likely be: finances, relationships, and overall quality of life.
How can physical activity help with mental health, you ask? Physical activity has a profound impact on depression, anxiety and ADHD. It relieves stress, increases memory, and assists with overall mood. Fitness activity also helps you sleep better. Better sleep and recovery also means you’re ready for your next workout too.
All of these issues are closely interconnected. All of these things are important. So, what is my suggestion to you? Let’s motivate each other to move more. In as little as 15 minutes each day, I can guarantee you will feel better. Take the time you need to reset your mind, decompress, and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
Let me inspire you, come into your life bubble, and let me help you set and reach some goals. I promise it will not only make you feel healthier, gain more energy, but it may too inspire you to do more. Contact me today!
Christina is the owner of LIFStyle Fitness. Live. Inspire. Fuel. She offers customized in-person and at home workout plans tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. Christina started her fitness journey over3 years ago by focusing on her nutrition, physical activity, and mental well being. She has 3 children and wanted to show her young boys that taking care of ones body is important. She says she feels younger, has more energy, and has finally found her passion.