Ethan Buffalo
Reporter
According to thestateofobesity.org, a website dedicated to tracking obesity statistics in America, the average obesity rate of an adult has risen from 30.5% in 1999-2000,
to39.6% when last surveyed in 2015-2016. The health risks associated with obesity include increased risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease to name a few.
“Our biggest cause of obesity today is our sedentary lifestyle.” According to Jamie Stanley, one of Crowder’s academic advisors and lifetime wellness instructors, “We are more apt to email somebody than to go talk to somebody.”
An inactive lifestyle and poor nutrition can lead to obesity but losing weight can be possible for those that feel motivated.
“You can start off in low amounts. It doesn’t have to be an hour a day. Shoot for 20 minutes, 30 minutes, then 45.” Stanley continued, “If you can get in an hour, five to six days per week, then that’s excellent.”
Encouraging a variety of activities like walking, basketball, and tennis to maintain interest and stay active. Exercise has more benefits than just slimming down.
“I like to lift weights and run on the treadmill. Sometimes I’ll jump rope,” says Macie Engleman, a teacher education major at Crowder.
“You’re going to feel better about yourself. You’re going to have more energy. You’re going to sleep better. You also usually make better choices with your food,” claimed Stanley.
Fast food does function as a quick and relatively cheap substitute for a home cooked meal, but is high in sodium and sugar, two chemicals low in nutritional value. A tasty treat shouldn’t become a dietary staple, and for those looking to get into shape, Jamie Stanley has an affordable solution.
“I’d recommend a diet analysis,” says Stanley. “Pick a week or pick two. Start seeing where those carbs and calories come from.”
Physical health is a broad term that can be broken down into multiple facets. Cardio, strength training, nutrition, and stress. Balancing them can be difficult but some determination and self-discipline can go a long way and improve both physical and mental happiness.
“Stay active and keep moving,” Stanley encouraged. Repeatedly stating that there are slip ups and breaks along the way, but perseverance is most important.
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