The latest hit from the Biggest Loser family of reality TV has focused on overweight singles – drawing a comparison between the battle of the bulge and the fight for love.
TV shows like this would have you believe that by working out (hard!), you will lose weight and find the love of your life. According to a report by the Australian Bureau of Statistics released in May 2011, reality TV producers are targeting a big audience:
“In no less than 13 countries in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), 50% or more of the adult population is now classified as being either overweight or obese, with Australia’s obesity rate the fifth highest, behind only the United States, Mexico, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.”
Over 50% of adults overweight?! This is hardly an encouraging report card for the Australian population…but this should be compared to a recent IBIS report which commented that:
“Revenue in health and fitness centres and gymnasia over the past five years is expected to have grown at an average annual rate of over 13%, with an estimated 1.8 million Australians now members of gyms and health clubs”
Cynics could suggest this proves there is no relationship between gym membership and obesity prevention, but accurate research says otherwise.
Clearly there is a large body (excuse the pun) of Australians who are focused on maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyle and an even larger body (excuse the larger pun!) who for whatever reason are not.
I know from personal experience that some overweight Australians are members of gyms – and I applaud their decision to improve their fitness and lifestyle. At least they’re out there!
Of course, attending a gym is not the only way to stay fit and healthy. ’Pounding the pavement’ as you walk or run around your neighbourhood can also be effective and participating in sports or physical activities like dancing work well too. I’ve heard of groups who do early morning laps of the shopping centre – it’s air-conditioned!
The important point is that a balanced lifestyle is supported by reasonable levels of fitness – we don’t need to be elite athletes to lead a healthy lifestyle. You just need to find an activity that suits you and your lifestyle.
There are many advantages of exercise. Here are my top 10 (plus a bonus) -
- Improves the heart and circulatory system
- Improves the respiratory system
- Improves the digestive system
- Increases muscle tone
- Increases your bone density
- Improves the condition of your skin
- Helps to avoid depression
- Can be a great social activity
- Will help you sleep soundly
- Helps burn toxic substances
- Gives you an excuse to buy some great exercise gear!
Make sure that if you are starting exercise after a lengthy period of inactivity that you seek appropriate medical advice before commencing and don’t over-do it initially. The possibilities of injury when you are unfit are significantly higher so ease into it! And of course don’t give up when your muscles hurt – that’s part of the reshaping process!
So if you are not already into exercising, join the millions of Australians who are actively winning the battle of the bulge and add some balance to your life!
Don’t miss out – also in Wealth By Design this month:
Valentine’s Day – how to show you care without blowing the budget
