Exercise
stresses are different for different individuals. However, given enough rest between periods of intense exercise, the body will repair itself and adapt to the training load. Still, too much exercise is not good for the body. Health experts recommend at least one day of rest between intense exercise sessions to give the body time to recover. In extreme cases, overtraining can lead to circulation problems and fatigue. In addition, sudden bouts of intense exercise can damage muscle tissue. Repeated damage to tissues caused by overexercising may lead to permanent joint problems later on. Exercise, eating, and obesity Exercise uses up a lot of energy, so it is essential that people eat a healthy, balanced diet. The food must contain the right balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as vitamins and minerals, to replenish the stocks lost during exercise and aid the recovery process. Obesity is a serious health problem. Many people take in more energy from food than they use. The body converts the extra energy into fat, which is stored in the body. People then become overweight. In extreme cases, that is called obesity, Training with weights builds up muscle which substantially increases the risk of serious illness. size and strength. That type of exercise, Children need to take in lots of energy because their body which may involve the use of machines, as is growing and developing at a fast rate. However, childhood shown here, or simple hand weights, keeps obesity is becoming more common. It puts children at greater the muscles in a constant state of tension. risk of diseases usually seen in adults, such as diabetes, blocked arteries, and high blood pressure. Studies have shown that childhood obesity is much more common if a child’s parents are obese. There might be a genetic component to obesity, but it is more likely that family members eat the same fatty foods and avoid physical activity. Many children get little regular exercise. They spend hours watching television and playing computer games. Health experts recommend that children should do at least one hour of physical activity every day. Young people and children should walk or bicycle to school instead of getting a lift in the car—provided they understand the rules of safety on the highway. A brisk walk is probably the easiest and cheapest form of exercise and can be fitted into the daily routine. SEE ALSO
aerobics • basal metabolism • fats • heart • isometric exercises • obesity • physical fitness • rest and relaxation • sports • yoga
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