My grandmother celebrated her 90th birthday on the 25th of April. My other grandmother turned 93 last September and is still fairly active. One of the gentlemen who attends the exercise class I teach is 83, and one of the ladies is 75. I am amazed at what great physical shape they are in, so I asked them what their secret to longevity was. Their answer stated unanimously—staying active!
One of the things that Theresa taught me was to fit in exercise at every possible minute of the day. While brushing your teach you can do squats, while cooking you can do jumping jacks, or while waiting in line at the grocery store you can hold onto the buggy and do lunges (don’t worry what people may think—maybe we can start a new trend!).
Staying active is much different than staying busy. Before receiving the advice from Theresa, I stayed busy sitting at the computer surfing for ideas to use in the classroom. I used to make many excuses of why I didn’t have time to exercise because I was so busy—but I was not active.
Today I fit in exercise every way that I can. After shopping I may run to my car rather than walk. During recess I go outside and run with many of my students (we are currently finishing up a Kids’ Marathon, running each recess until we reach the 26.2 miles.) I do sit-ups and walk on the treadmill while watching my favorite show The Biggest Loser. Additionally, I incorporate squats and lunges into my daily routine.
The gentleman and lady afore mentioned who attend my exercise class told me that they stay active by gardening, working in the yard, cleaning outside, fishing, hunting, etc. Very seldom to they sit for any length of time.
Even with our busiest schedules we can find time to be active. God speaks on staying active in many scriptures, but one of my favorites comes from the Proverbs 31 passage about the Virtuous Woman.
Proverbs 31:27: She watches over the ways of her household, And does not eat the bread of idleness.
Not only will staying active make me stronger and healthier, it will also contribute to a longer healthier life.
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