Fitness month focuses on health, social benefits

  • Published
  • By Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Jason Segedy
  • Det. 10, Air Force News Agency
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNEWS) --  May is National Sports and Fitness month, and there are positive health and social benefits to getting off the couch and over to the fitness center, a track, running trail, pool, court, park or other venue of your choice.

In other words, just choose it!

Jill Goff, fitness program manager at Yokota's Health and Wellness Center cited a 1996 surgeon general's report that said people who participate in moderate intensity exercise should see a decrease in health issues.

That includes "issues like diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure," Ms. Goff said.

Getting fit does not always have to be grueling hours at the gym or just group exercise.  Sports and other competitive games contribute to morale and fitness at the same time.
 
"It builds that friendly competitive nature in us, whether it be volleyball, softball or baseball," said 1st Lt. Chris Reed, maintenance operations officer at the 374th Maintenance Operations Squadron. "People tend to do better in groups, and they feed off each other's energy." 

Having energy to pursue various interests and hobbies during the summer shouldn't slow up as temperatures rise. 

"I would encourage people to either start up a routine if you are not currently on one, or add a few new exercises," said Ms. Goff. "It's a good way to get prepared for the summer months." 

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