Exercise better than magic pill

National Exercise Day last week (April 18) was a timely reminder that it’s time to put down that smart phone or computer, get off the couch and get moving – to ward off the modern scourge of inactivity.
In the past, exercise was built into daily routines.
Whether walking to the well to get water, feeding animals or working farm machines, gardening, kneading bread or even riding a horse to get to the next town, exercise was part of almost every person’s life.
But in today’s age of technology, where almost anything can be delivered to the doorstep, getting an adequate amount of physical exercise can be tricky.
That’s why it’s important to get a little help from the experts and according to Bankstown Women’s Health Operations Manager Kerrie Newcombe, exercise is particularly beneficial for women who have to deal with many life challenges in carer, parenting or partner roles.
“That’s why we offer so many free classes such as yoga, zumba and general exercise group sessions,” she said.
“Exercise is known to trigger the release of endorphins which lowers stress and improves mood.
“As far as depression and anxiety go, it’s like a magic pill.
“Exercise is very effective in a group activity too as it reduces isolation; sometimes in our offices here, we can hear the women exercising downstairs, laughing so hard and releasing all that stress, it’s wonderful.”
Anytime Fitness Bankstown consultant Rhonda says exercise definitely gives you peace of mind.
“Through exercise, you’ll have so much more energy and feel younger and happier,” she said.
Panania Parkrun organiser Kathy Crispin says that just walking regularly improve your longevity.
“You don’t have to do a huge amount but exercise is contagious, the more you do, the more you’ll want to do because it feels so good.”