Sept 2023: For the cover story of Heath Radar (a publication of News Max Health), Dr. Joseph Maroon is interviewed by reporter Vera Tweed on maintaining fitness.  The article, It’s Never Too Late to Embrace the Power of Fitness, appears in the September Newsletter. Here is a quote by Dr. Maroon that will appear online in the September Health Newsletter.

….. track running increased levels of beneficial chemicals in the brain. These chemicals stimulate growth of new brain cells, improve connections within the brain, and lift mood. “I was resetting the neurotransmitters in my brain,” he explains. Running also stimulates more blood flow to the brain and improves the health of blood vessels, the heart, bones, and lungs, as well as the ability to use oxygen. Any exercise that raises the heart rate has these effects.
“There’s so much that happens when you just walk around the block fast or take the steps instead of the elevator,” says Maroon. In addition to making you feel good, exercise can significantly help prevent or improve chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. And it can extend a healthy life.

Here are other Fitness Tips Dr. Maroon recommends as well (that did not appear in the article)

Set realistic goals. Don’t try to do too much too soon, or you’ll be more likely to give up. Start with small goals, such as walking for 30 minutes three times a week, and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as you get fitter.

Find an activity you enjoy. If you hate running, don’t force yourself to do it. There are many other ways to get fit, such as swimming, biking, dancing, or hiking. Find an activity that you enjoy and that you’ll stick with.

Make fitness a priority. Schedule time for exercise in your day, just like you would any other important appointment. If you have a busy schedule, try to fit in short workouts throughout the day, such as a brisk walk during your lunch break or a few sets of bodyweight exercises at home before bed.

Find a workout buddy. Working out with a friend can help you stay motivated and accountable. You can also challenge each other to reach your fitness goals.

Reward yourself. When you reach a fitness goal, reward yourself with something you enjoy. This will help you stay motivated and on track.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re not sure where to start, or if you need help staying motivated, talk to a personal trainer or fitness instructor. They can help you create a workout plan that’s right for you and teach you the proper form to avoid injury.

Remember, embracing fitness is a journey, not a destination. It’s about making healthy choices that you can stick with for the long term. So don’t be afraid to start small and gradually increase your activity level. And most importantly, have fun!

If you have a medical condition always ask your healthcare provider before changing the amount and type of exercise you do.