This is an interesting TED talk about how much exercise is actually healthy for us. It specifically talks about running. I am a runner and have been since I was 12 years of age. I did the extreme training, marathons, 10 and 20K and track racing at a competitive level for 16 years. I then backed away a little from running and starting cycling long distances, swimming and yes still running. I have competed in a few triathlons but not at an extremely competitive level. I was told by more than one medical practitioner, over my life thus far, that the extreme exercise and endurance training was not really that well suited for my body. I listened and cut back some and started mixing things up a little more. I included Pilates, now Yoga, boot camp, a little CrossFit, spinning and yes of course running, cycling and some swimming. Since moving to Switzerland 10 years ago, I have also added skate skiing, downhill skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. I do these various forms of exercise at various times throughout the year and likely only exercise 4 to 5 days a week at a much lower intensity than I used to. Following what Mr. O`Keefe and many of the medical practitioners that I have discussed health with, my weekly exercise regime includes cardio (long and short), strength and stretching. It has given me a more balanced level of health and fitness. I also like to give myself a little challenge each year, a few road races, or a cycling race or a trekking adventure to give myself a few months of extra. These little events I always find fun and so satisfying to complete. They are good for my spirit. If you do not exercise regularly, this talk might give you an incentive to start. What he is suggesting is very doable, even for the happiest of couch potatoes. If you are an extreme exercise keep in mind that you are depleting your body of nutrients with the excessive exercise. It is a very delicate balance when we train at the upper end of the curve. At that point nutrition and monitoring your body`s response to exercise is quite important. This talk might give you pause to step back and make a decision about how much exercise is actually good for you. Balance on my Friends….
Posted on: Sat, 25 Oct 2014 11:17:36 +0000