Standing Counts as Exercise!

Last week I wrote about bariatrics, so it follows that this week I’m writing about exercise. It’s long been known that exercise contributes to general wellness. But exactly how and what kind has been undetermined. The body’s goal is to maintain a homeostasis. Recent studies show that moderate-vigorous exercise can increase appetite, which may be good for those undergoing intense chemotherapy or other procedures that can have negative effects on body weight, but is bad news for the heavier crowd.

In burning lots of calories, more calories need to be consumed. This can be bad news for larger people, who exercise with the intent of losing weight. New studies show, however, that low intensity exercise like walking, and even standing can burn energy on a level that doesn’t trigger metabolic action. The basic idea is, avoid a sedentary lifestyle for better overall health. Whether it’s losing weight or staying in shape, walking and standing can keep you healthy and happy.

If you have trouble standing or walking on your own, there are certain items designed to help. Manual wheelchairs, knee walkers, rolling walkers, and even a rolling walker with seat are all great ways to ambulate and burn energy. Standing with the help of rolling walkers, is in itself a great way to exercise. So don't feel the burden to get up and run, just get up!