DR SETHU MANI-BABU
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In a year that has already been tough on us all, we are now moving into the cold winter months and as the nights draw in, physical activity can seem unappealing.
It can be so tempting after a long day at work to sit on the sofa, eat and watch tv.
However physical activity is just as important now as it ever has been and even more so if you have been working from home, sitting at a desk with back to back meetings.
In my role as a Sport and Exercise Medicine doctor, I am always promoting the benefits of physical activity to my patients.
I am keen to emphasize that no matter what your age or ability is, increasing your level of activity will do you the world of good.
There are numerous health benefits, not just for our physical health in regards to preventing and managing diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, but also our mental health too. The release of endorphins (chemicals in the brain) can make us feel so much better after exercise.
So what activity can I do, I hear you ask!
Well, the good thing to know is that any movement counts. The less time spent sitting the better. If you feel up for it, then a brisk walk or a jog outside can also give you the additional benefits of fresh air and a change of scenery. You could even do this before work or at lunchtime.
There are plenty of other options too such as online workout videos, some of which I have done and still continue to do! They range in difficulty from beginners to advanced workouts and can be done for as little as 7-10 minutes or for 30 minutes or longer for those wanting to do a bit more.
There really is something for everyone so no matter what you choose, have fun and keep active this winter!
#KeepMovingSuffolk
Dr Sethu Mani-Babu
Sport and Exercise Medicine Registrar
MBBS, BSc (Hons), MRCP (UK)
Dr Mani-Babu is one of our campaign champions – read more about him here
