Medical Fitness Week is almost upon us. Typically celebrated in the spring, this annual observation had been postponed this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic until September. As many of us may have been less active this past summer because of added restrictions, Medical Fitness Week is the perfect time to get up and get moving!

This year, Medical Fitness Week will be celebrated September 14^th – 20^th. It is sponsored by The Medical Fitness Association and works to promote healthy lifestyles and a greater physical activity level for all ages and abilities.

At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, we absolutely believe in promoting healthy, active lifestyles. But we also understand that it can sometimes be overwhelming starting that journey. With an overabundance of trends and fads in dieting and exercise, how can one possibly know where to start, let alone, which path is the right one for them?

In the spirit of Medical Fitness Week, we are sharing a few simple, unfailing goals that you can implement to get moving in a healthier direction. Think of them as the first step in developing a healthier lifestyle from which you can grow and evolve as your strength builds and your wellbeing improves.

Start Medical Fitness Week with Movement

From this week forward, work on moving more. It sounds a bit simple, but you may be surprised by how little movement you actually typically do in a day. This is especially true for those who work at a desk job, either at home or in an office. Sitting for hours upon hours each day can cause all sorts of aches and pains including back pain, neck and shoulder stiffness, and tight or achy hips. Over time, this can lead to serious discomfort that can require extensive work to correct.

Move Your Way from Health.gov recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and at least 2 days a week of muscle-strengthening activity. This doesn’t mean that you have to invest in a gym membership or find a job where you will be on your feet all day. Just start moving more. Try setting your alarm to remind you to get up and walk around throughout the day. A 5 minute walk every 50 minutes can do wonders for your body. Or use your lunch break to get in a longer walk.

A few extra ideas you can consider to incorporate more movement include:

• Taking the stairs
• Opting for a quick workout or gentle yoga session instead of watching TV or browsing social media
• Working in the yard
• Cleaning the house
• Dancing to your favorite music
• Going for a hike or walking the dog
• Swimming

Medical Fitness Association promotes two programs during Medical Fitness Week to encourage movement throughout communities: the MOVE150 program and the WALK10K challenge.

If you need additional encouragement, consider this: physical activity provides benefits to more than just your body. It can help boost your mood, sharpen your mind, reduce stress, and improve sleep.

Focus on Nutrition

A nutritious diet is just as important as movement in developing a healthier lifestyle. Not only does it help your body function at optimal levels, but it provides the fuel needed for increased physical activity. There is definitely some truth to the old saying, “you are what you eat”. Focus on incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins in your diet and limiting sweets, fatty, and processed foods as they have less nutritional purpose.

Even better, consider talking to a nutritionist. They can provide expert advice based on your health, needs, and goals and their recommendations may make a change in diet more tolerable and sustainable rather than trying to figure it out on your own.

Consider the Role of Orthopaedic Care in a Healthy Lifestyle

Bones, muscles, and joints can be directly affected by a healthy, or unhealthy, lifestyle. A well-fueled body at a healthy weight can be less susceptible to injuries and osteoarthritis. In turn, untreated orthopaedic conditions and injuries can lead to an unhealthy and sedentary lifestyle.

Staying on top of your orthopaedic health is important in order to sustain an appropriate level of physical movement and a positive outlook that can encourage a healthier lifestyle. At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, our specialists provide comprehensive care to work with you on prevention, treatment, and recovery.

If you have orthopaedic concerns that are preventing you from taking a health-forward approach in life, please call us today at (708) 237-7200 or request an appointment online so that you can get back on track to a healthier lifestyle.

For additional information about Medical Fitness Week, you can contact the Medical Fitness Association by calling (844) 312-3541 or visiting their website here.