Since 1983, the month of May has been observed as the National Physical Fitness and Sports Month by the President’s Council on Fitness. This occasion is considered an opportunity to spread awareness on healthy lifestyles among all Americans and improve their quality of life. For 2019, this month’s theme is #MoveInMay.
Engaging in physical activities helps everyone increase their energy levels and ensure good health. To stay physically fit, you can –
- Engage in sport activities – soccer, basketball or football
- Consider physical activities – aerobic, muscle-strengthening, balance and stretching exercises
- Adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle like eating healthy
- Walk or cycle instead of taking the car or bus and choose the stairs over the escalator
- Play with your kids, up and down the field
- Clean your home yourself
- Find some time for gardening
- Enjoy playing quick pick-up games at a local park
- Participate in a local road race
Staying active also helps children and adults with disabilities gain mental and physical benefits such as reduced risk of chronic and secondary conditions, improved self-esteem as well as improved social interaction.
To eat healthy, take small steps such as – consume lean protein foods like meat, poultry, seafood, dry beans or peas, eggs, nuts, and seeds; drink water instead of sugary drinks; reduce intake of sodium; drink low-fat or fat-free milk and add fruits or vegetables as a main part of your meals.
Other fitness weeks and days observed in May are –
- National Physical Education & Sport Week – May 1 to7
- National Bike to School Day – May 8
- National Women’s Health Week – May 12 to18
- National Senior Health & Fitness Day – May 29
Regular physical activity is good for everyone’s health and people of all ages and body types. While kids and adolescents can improve their muscular fitness, bone health and heart health, adults can reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer with such activities. At the same time, older adults can lower the risk of falls and improve cognitive functioning.
