Acknowledging The Importance Of Physical Activity On Health

The end of the year brings the dreaded “open enrollment” period for many employees who participate in employer sponsored insurance plans.  This year, we learned that it’s possible to get credit back from at least one of our health care providers for certain fitness memberships.  It seems the importance of physical activity on overall health is finally gaining some respect amongst the insurance companies.  So much so that they’re at least willing to provide a financial incentive to member participation.

Photo Credit Colros

The Importance Of Physical Activity On Health

A recent article in our local newspaper brought to light the importance of physical activity for Kentuckians, as they discussed the some findings of the CDC.  Turns out Kentuckians are among the heaviest people in the U.S., with 63% of adults classified as either obese or overweight.  We have the 5th highest rate of obesity in the U.S.  Of course, we know that you can’t exercise enough to lose weight, but every little bit helps when it comes to fitness and health.

Other trends highlighting the importance of physical activity and health are also starting to emerge.  For instance, Lincoln University recently gained some attention for a policy that was instituted in 2006, but is only now coming to light.  Students scheduled for graduation in 2010 must have had their BMI tested during their tenure at the university, and those with a BMI>30 were required to take a fitness class titled “Fitness for Life.”  Some of the students were not aware of the requirement, and are less than impressed with the policy.  In defense of the school, students aren’t required to lose weight, only learn about the benefits of living a healthier lifestyle.

With the increasing focus on the costs of healthcare in this country, everyone is going to be required to make changes in our collective approach our fitness and health.  We will have to become active consumers of healthcare, rather than passive participants.  We can likely expect tools that enable this change to become more prevalent.  Chances are, some of them will make us uncomfortable.  But the potential benefits of fitness on physical activity can’t be denied.  Right down to the cellular level, long-term physical activity is proven to lower cholesterol, reduce resting heart rate, and can be a key tactic in solving the problem of how to lower blood pressure naturally.  As we move to a model that promotes preventative approaches to healthcare to control costs, expect these use of these tools to grow.