I can reduce your risk of dying from heart disease and of developing diabetes and colon cancer. I can reduce your high blood pressure, your feelings of depression and anxiety, and your weight. I can help you build healthy bones and muscles and help the elderly become stronger and more mobile. I help promote a sense of well-being.

What am I?

I am physical activity, and although it does take some effort to become healthy and fit, getting enough physical activity does not have to seem like work. Pick activities you enjoy like brisk walking, running, hiking, cycling, swimming, cross-country skiing, basketball, tennis, or racquetball. You can also get sufficient activity from housework, gardening, mowing the lawn (if you push the mower), and from golfing (if you walk the course).

Physical activity is only beneficial if you get enough of it on a regular basis. You should perform at least 30 minutes of physical activity at least four days a week, but preferably everyday. However, you do not have to perform all of your activity in 30-minute blocks of time. Physical activity in blocks of 10 minutes can be beneficial as long as you accumulate 30 minutes of physical activity daily.

Remember, the human body was designed to be used. In fact, it is the only machine that will break down faster from not being used. So, focus on physical activity and not on "exercise." Enjoy being active! Your life depends on it.

Joe Jacko, M.D.

Dallas, Texas