What will you fight for?

Today, on ANZAC Day, we pause to honour the brave soldiers who fought for our nation. Their sacrifices remind us of the importance of courage and determination in the face of challenges. As we reflect on their stories, it prompts us to consider what we are fighting for in our own lives.

For me, the answer might surprise you—it's movement, physical activity, and exercise.

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to fall into a routine that keeps us glued to the couch, citing the "no time mentality." However, neglecting movement has consequences beyond physical fitness—it impacts our brain health, cardiovascular health, and even our longevity.

1. Improved Brain Health

Exercise isn't just about sculpting muscles; it's about nurturing our brains. Studies show that even a single session of moderate-to-vigorous exercise can reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and enhance executive functions like planning and organizing. Feeling overwhelmed? Take a walk—it might just clear your mind.

2. Risk Reduction of Heart Disease

The heart is at the centre of our vitality. Regular physical activity significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and stroke. By simply incorporating a 30-minute walk into your daily routine, you can kickstart your journey towards a healthier heart.

3. Encourages Longevity

They say, "use it or lose it." The same applies to our bodies. Physical activity not only strengthens muscles and bones but also helps stave off the effects of aging. We don't want 70-year-old knees on our 30th birthday, do we? Research indicates that for optimal health, adults should aim for around 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day if under the age of 60, and 6,000 to 8,000 steps if over the age of 60.

And there you have it. There are three reasons for you to fight for movement in your life! And look, you don’t need to be pumping iron at the gym, nor do you need to be popping three-pointers like Chef Curry. You just need to find out what works for you. It can be as adventurous as bouldering, or it can even be a pastime with your favourite person in the world. Exercise can be fun and is for everyone! For some exercise tips, feel free to reach out to us. Here at Balanced for Life, we believe that Moving Better matters!