May is 'Exercise is Medicine' month

  • Published
  • By Dale Bennett
  • Hanscom Exercise Physiologist
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  The American College of Sports Medicine has announced preparations for this year's Exercise is Medicine month, a program that encourages a healthier, more active lifestyle throughout the month of May...and beyond.

The program is an initiative launched by the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Medical Association and designed to encourage health care professionals to discuss exercise with their patients, and conversely, to encourage patients to feel comfortable starting that conversation with their health care provider.

Exercise is Medicine month encourages more physical activity into people's lives and discussions with their physicians about the types of exercise best suited to their health.

"According to data from the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 79 percent of U.S. adults do not meet the recommended physical activity guidelines of two and a half hours per week of moderate aerobic activity and the recommended muscle strengthening activities," said Dale Bennett, exercise physiologist at the Health and Wellness Center.

Research has proven that exercise helps prevent or cure numerous chronic conditions and diseases, such as Type II diabetes and high blood pressure. Physicians play a crucial role in presenting this information to their patients.

"One of the most powerful things you can do for your health is to engage in regular physical activity," Bennett said.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Prevention and Control, $76 billion in annual medical costs can be attributed to physical inactivity.

"Have a meaningful conversation with your healthcare provider, or seek out a fitness professional, to ensure it's safe for you to begin exercising and then get moving," Bennett said.

Resources for physicians, fitness professionals, schools, worksites, insurance companies and the public are available at www.exerciseismedicinemonth.org. These resources include recommendations for fitness professionals and doctors to help design a complete physical activity program for patients, ways for the public to begin exercising and lesson plan ideas for teachers.

Interested members can sign up to receive free health and fitness resources as well.
In addition to online resources, the HAWC provides guidance on exercise programs and evaluations designed to help get the most out of your exercise.

For more information or for assistance, contact the HAWC at 781-225-6375 or via email at 66.mds.hawc@hanscom.af.mil.