Fitness
As nearly every functional medicine practitioner will tell you, fitness is a cornerstone of functional medicine. This approach to health is all about getting to the root cause of your health issues, not simply managing the symptoms. This fact might surprise you, but fitness and exercise can correct many imbalances in the body.
Human beings have evolved to be active. For most of human history, manual labor and outdoor lifestyles were the norm, but today, many of us live sedentary lifestyles as we work at a desk, drive across town, and enjoy our favorite shows on TV. Returning to a more active lifestyle can pay incredible dividends toward your longevity and quality of life.
While many people associate fitness with athletics or physical education, it is important to recognize that fitness is a crucial health issue. We’re not just talking about numbers on a scale or achieving a tones physique. We’re talking about adding years of health to your life.
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6 Surprising Health Benefits of Fitness
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only about 23% of American adults are meeting the recommended physical activity guidelines. These guidelines include both aerobic and strength exercises; both are necessary for optimal health.
In addition, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that more than 40% of American adults are considered physically inactive, meaning they engage in no leisure-time physical activity at all. It’s one thing to fall slightly below the recommended activity levels for any given week. It’s another thing entirely to engage in no activity at all. These statistics highlight the need for increased emphasis on the importance of physical activity for overall health and wellness.
Although modern medicine is saturated with pills and medications, pharmaceuticals can’t prevent or reverse most conditions. They can help manage symptoms or slow the spread, but only a holistic approach to health can keep you at your healthiest. Fitness is one important part of that holistic approach.
Here are Six Ways Upping Your Fitness Routine Can Improve Your Health
Reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes
Helps manage weight and body composition
Improves mental health and well-being
Enhances bone density and joint health
Promotes better sleep and increased energy
Reduces stress and anxiety
Take a Look at How Fitness Promotes Some of the Specialties at Thrive Naturopathic
Our practice is known for helping people figure out complex conditions related to hormone imbalances, metabolism, and immune function.
Fitness and Hormone Imbalances
One of the most significant benefits of fitness is its impact on hormone balance. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which are hormones that reduce stress and increase feelings of happiness. Additionally, regular exercise can help regulate the levels of other hormones, such as cortisol and testosterone, leading to improved overall hormone balance.
Fitness and Metabolism
Regular exercise can help boost metabolism, which is the rate at which the body burns calories. A higher metabolism can help individuals maintain a healthy weight and improve energy levels. Building muscle mass will increase your resting caloric burn rate, which can make weight loss easier to combat diabetes, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome.
Fitness and Immune System
Fitness can also have a positive impact on the immune system. Exercise can improve blood circulation, which allows immune cells to circulate more efficiently throughout the body. Regular exercise has also been shown to reduce the risk of certain illnesses and infections.
What Functional Medicine Fitness Is Not
We want you to remember that Thrive Naturopathic is not a gym or training facility. Every one of our fitness plans falls under the umbrella of a wider wellness strategy.
For example, functional medicine fitness is not a lose-weight-fast program, and it doesn’t fall under the scope of sports psychology. It is also not a personal strength or conditioning training program. If you are recovering from an acute injury like a tendon tear or sprain, you should see a certified physical therapist.
Instead, functional medicine is about creating a personalized treatment plan for each client. We work with you to find a sustainable fitness program that targets your goals while being enjoyable and fun in the process.
Sign Up for a Free Discovery Call with Thrive Naturopathic
If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of naturopathic functional medicine, we encourage you to sign up for a free discovery call with Thrive Naturopathic. Our team of experienced practitioners can answer any questions you may have and help you take the first steps toward optimal health and wellness.
Tell us about your previous history with fitness and exercise. As always, we want to take your unique story into consideration when it comes to your treatment plan. If you do enjoy strength training, running, or recreational sports, you might be surprised at how our other services, like nutraceuticals and nutrition, can boost your performance.
We look forward to meeting you!
