Get Moving in May for National Physical Fitness and Sports Month
Need a little motivation to get active this spring? Well, hopefully this article will put a little extra spring in your step! Since 1983, each President has proclaimed May as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month! May is a great month to celebrate and promote the importance as well as the benefits of physical activity, physical fitness, and sports participation. It’s also the perfect time to find an activity that you enjoy!
So, how much should I exercise?
No matter your age, physical activity is absolutely essential for good health. Sadly, more than a quarter of the world’s adult population are sedentary. Are you a part of this population?
It’s a no brainer. We need to move more and sit less throughout the day. If you are someone who has little to no spare time, remember that some physical activity is better than none. For substantial health benefits, you should aim for at least 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity a week. This averages out to 30 minutes a day on weekdays, or just over 20 minutes a day for the week. Let us also not forget our muscle-strengthening activities! Adults should aim to work all major muscle groups on 2 or more days a week. 
What are the benefits?
There are so many benefits to getting regular physical activity! You can lower your risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some types of cancers. Staying physically active helps to keep diabetes and high blood pressure under control, reduces stress, boosts your mood and improves your quality of sleep. Furthermore, children and adolescents who participate in sports and physical activity can see improvements in muscular strength, bone health, and heart health. It also helps teens develop leadership, time management and relationship-building skills early on.
When you start to think about how you can move more, remember you can move your way! Do what you enjoy! You can take a group fitness class, participate in a virtual class from the comfort of your own home, work with a fitness professional or take part in one of your favorite outdoor activities!
If you need some motivation to get moving, here are a few good ideas to help you spring into shape.
Try a Virtual Workout
We can get healthy and fit together even when we’re apart! Gone are the days when you had to go to the gym to get your sweat on. Now you can workout right from the comfort of your own home. There are an array of apps, podcasts and streaming workouts that you can do to mix up your routine.
Fitness trackers are cool. But like any technology, they come with pros and cons.
Try a Group Fitness Class
Group fitness classes are a fun and effective way to get in shape and stay motivated. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who have similar fitness goals creates a sense of camaraderie and accountability. Most local gyms have a variety of classes to choose from. Try a few and see which ones suit you best. The instructor will encourage you along the way and provide the motivation you need to keep showing up!
Try Your Hand at Pickleball
Pickleball, a recreational racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton is by some measures the fastest-growing sport in America. It is a fast-paced sport that involves a lot of running, jumping, and lateral movements, which can improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease. It can also improve hand-eye coordination, build strong muscles, and lower blood pressure. Pickleball puts less stress on joints than high-impact activities like running or basketball, making it suitable for people with joint issues or recovering from injuries. It’s also a great way to meet new friends.
Go the Extra Mile
Every day we’re presented with choices. We can park close to the office, or far away. We can take the elevator or the stairs. We can sleep in or get up early and workout. Don’t be lazy! Change up your daily routine and go the extra mile! Every step counts.
Don’t Be a Couch Potato
It’s no secret that nearly half of Americans sit for too many hours a day and don’t get any exercise at all. Instead of lounging in front of the TV, do some push-ups, jumping jacks, and crunches. Hop on a treadmill or bike, do some core work, and try some squats, lunges or burpees.
Take Part in a Step Challenge
Most of us need to be challenged to continue to grow. Whether it’s 5,000 or 10,000, challenge yourself to walk a certain number of steps each day. Grab a friend and head to a state park for a walk or hike on a scenic trail. When the conversation is good, you won’t even realize how far you’ve walked!
Go for a Swim
Swimming is something you can do anywhere – in the backyard pool, a lake, ocean, or community center. Kids love it, teens love it and parents love it, too. Swimming helps improve your flexibility, your balance, builds muscles and enhances your endurance. It’s also a highly effective way to unwind after a long day at the office. 
Turn Up the Music and Dance
Dancing is an exciting and social way to work out your body. It’s also a great way to express yourself! From ballroom to salsa, dancing works your heart, helps build strong bones and muscles, and can improve your balance. Whether you prefer to sign up for dance lessons, participate in a virtual dance class or beat to your own drum, you’ll have so much fun, you’ll forget you’re even exercising!
Actively Enjoy the Outdoors
It’s the perfect time of year to take advantage of the warmer days and spend quality time with the ones you love. Take a family walk, play a few games of volleyball, or go for a bike ride after dinner.
In Conclusion:
Physical activity is good for everyone’s health, and people of all ages, fitness levels, and body types can participate. National Physical Fitness & Sports Month is a time to recognize and promote physical activity and the advantages of sports participation. 
During National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, we all can shine a spotlight on the importance of being physically active in maintaining our nation’s health and wellness. Whether you enjoy a brisk walk, competitive sports, or dancing – keep at it this month. Even better, get your loved ones on board, too! Good luck to you.
I have been a personal trainer for over twenty years and I absolutely love what I do. I honestly feel that I have one of the best jobs out there! The most rewarding part of my profession is helping one of my clients succeed at reaching their personal fitness goals. Making a difference in someone’s life makes it all worthwhile. I am currently certified by the National Sports Conditioning Association, Apex Fitness Group, and the International Sports Science Association.
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