Drew Memorial Hospital

	Press Room

	Healthy Articles February '04

February, 2004

Americans Weigh Too Much

New Survey Says Americans Weigh Too Much and Exercise Too Little

We all know that daily exercise and eating smart are vital to the success of our diabetes-management program. Exercise can help your body reduce cardiovascular risk factors, improve blood glucose control by enhancing insulin sensitivity and improve your psychological wellbeing.

So why do some people work out …… and why others don't. According to a Worldwide Survey commissioned by the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), "It appears as though the accepted norm has shifted to an over weight person who does not exercise." It found a wide range of attitudes-from devout believers who get big mental and physical benefits from their workouts, to couch potatoes who think exercise is just a passing fad. Check out the charts below, which describe the kinds of people who don't exercise and those who do.

Non-Exercise Groups Description:

The Abracadabras Wish there were a magic pill that could give
them the benefits without having to do the work

The Woulda Can't commit to a fitness routine and feel
Shoulda's bad about it

The Sitcom View exercise as unnecessary
Skeptics

Regular Exercise Groups Description:

The Balanced Believe fitness not only helps their bodies,
Holistics it also gives them a more positive attitude toward life

The Focus on the health and medical benefits of
Conscientious exercise- including a reduced risk of heart
Preventors disease and diabetes complications, as well as improvements in weight control

The Social Young risk-takers who say that
Competitors exercise activities bring them friends and fun.

Do you exercise? Do you see yourself on the non-exercise groups? One key is to realize the value of simple activity like walking or taking the stairs more often (you don't have to launch into a killer workout to begin to lose weight or to feel better). Of course, the most important step is discussing exercise with your doctor.

Good luck! Happy New Year.

Carole Neeley RN
Drew Memorial Hospital
Director of Education