Exercising: Worthwhile Leisure Activity

EXERCISE has come a long way from simply doing jumping-jacks in a middle school physical education class! Today, thousands of individuals are joining health clubs, the Family Y, or some other organization offering space and equipment in order to stay fit and to enjoy a more healthy lifestyle. In fact, exercise is big business world-wide. Thousands are also purchasing exercise equipment in an attempt to lose weight or tone muscles in the privacy of their own homes.

It all makes good sense! It's only natural for our bodies to move. And, it should not be difficult for most of us to realize that it is extremely important that we maintain the one body that each of us has been given for life on this planet. Thus, in addition to getting the proper amount of rest (with at least eight hours of sleep each night), hopefully we also see the need for a nutritious diet as well as getting an appropriate amount of exercise.
It is possible, of course, to get exercise in a variety of ways. For some, exercise is obtained by participating in some physical activity such as a sport or game. But this is usually not the best option for the majority of people because of time constraints. It seems much more convenient to go to the fitness center for a work-out, to jog through the park, to spend some time on the treadmill at home, or to walk around the neighborhood.

Exercising can be done in large groups - even with a fitness instructor or exercise leader. However, smaller groups are oftentimes better. From a strictly practical viewpoint, exercising alone - or perhaps with a friend - may be best. The advantage of exercising with a friend may be that each person feels somewhat accountable to the other in terms of a regular work-out schedule. Thus, getting needed exercise is more likely to happen!

The important thing is to make sure a regular routine of exercise does take place. Determining what to do, where to go, and when to exercise are all key factors. Perhaps the most significant factor is coming to the understanding that getting exercise is an essential ingredient for overall health, wellness, fitness, and wholeness. Perhaps then - and only then - will we be able to fully see that exercising is indeed a worthwhile activity to enjoy during our leisure.