All of us know that exercise is good for us, but still, a majority of adults and many children lead relatively sedentary lifestyles and are not active enough to achieve these health benefits. We have become dramatically more sedentary in the past 20 years and we are now in the midst of a widespread fitness crisis which greatly affects the health and productivity of our nation. The U.S. Department of Human Services has estimated that the cost of preventative health consequences due to obesity alone amount to $117 Billion per year. A recent Rand Corporation study has found that obesity has surpassed smoking as a health risk. It is linked to a big increase in chronic health conditions and significantly higher health expenditures. And it affects more people than smoking, heavy drinking, or poverty.
But, even for the slender, lack of exercise causes muscles to atrophy, poses greater chance of poor health and limits what you can achieve and enjoy in life.
The Outdoor-Fitness challenge is to provide greater opportunity for everybody. Schools, Parks and organizations of any kind can provide this inexpensive fitness solution. The avid fitness enthusiasts will benefit, but importantly, the 80% of Americans who engage in little or no physical activity, those are not likely to belong to expensive gyms, can have access to a facility and get active, in most cases free-of-charge.
The equipment is equally appropriate when installed as a cluster of exercise stations or spaced along a fitness trail. The Outdoor-Fitness equipment list offers a choice of 26 attractive exercise stations. They are constructed with enormously strong steel and will withstand the elements and years of continuous use. A selection of 6 to 10, or more pieces of equipment can provide a complete workout outdoors. The equipment offers public parks, schools and all health and fitness organizations a powerful way to provide for enhanced fitness opportunities and for the entire community.
The OUTDOOR-FITNESS Approach
Sometimes it's difficult to adapt to a new fitness environment. Many gym goers tend to become obsessed with a particular machine and exercise very specific constrained movement. Most of the Outdoor-Fitness equipment can be used for a variety of exercise, and we suggest that you approach it somewhat as play and try many different movements. There's no emphasis in a specific number of repetitions. You have to begin from where you are, then apply yourself to consistent workouts over some months, never over-doing the effort beyond your limits. In time, the gains will come, and you will notice them.
For those who are not in great shape and find themselves adverse to exercise, just get started. Even doing, say, 12 minutes, twice a week, is infinitely better than nothing. Everyone must get activated. But, pressure and risk are counter productive.
Again, progress gradually with no risk. Use the exercises to focus on and isolate target muscle groups, thus developing kinesthetic awareness. Pay attention to what the body is telling you. One muscle strain, or excessive discomfort will set you back more than it's worth, hampering the gains you will undoubtedly make with a modest approach.
Ten Good Reasons - Why Exercise?
Feel good: There is a feeling of vitality and euphoria that is experienced during, and after, a good workout. Exercise helps the secretion of endorphins which are known to decrease the sense of pain, enhance the immune response and reduce stress, among many beneficial results.
Increased Flexibility: Stretching exercises improve the range of motion and motor skills, enhancing daily function and decreasing the risk of injury.
Increased Strength: Enhances productivity. Adds more rewarding recreational opportunities, allowing you to get more out of life.
Increased Endurance: Do more of what you enjoy for longer, strengthen the heart and lungs. Upgrade your productivity.
Better Health: Your muscles need to be used regularly to work at their best. Increased exertion increases blood flow, primes the cardiovascular system and delivers nutrients. Exercise builds resistance to the onset of disease and builds lean muscle and stops muscular atrophy.
Greater Vitality: Improved energy and strength shows in your posture, attitude and enthusiasm.
Look good: Optimum, or less weight, healthy skin, reflect good workout habits. Maintains youthfulness.
Live longer:
Can't find the time? If you exercised an hour day, five days a week, for a life time, do you think you might live 2.3 years longer. Most experts think so. That's how long you would spend, totally, doing your exercise throughout a average term of U.S. life expectancy. Result, exercise returns more time than you invested. It doesn't cost you any time at all. In fact, it turns back the clock.
Earns you respect: Our culture, our friends and family, admire those who look after themselves. Being in shape tells others that you're alert, energetic, productive, disciplined and healthy. It helps your career.
Just Being Outdoors: We generally spend too much time indoors. The Outdoor Fitness program allows you to enjoy the sun, fresh air and all the elements. It's invigorating and has health and fitness benefits all on its own.
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