As 2012 comes to an end and we look for 2013 to begin, there is again a lot of talk about making a resolution for the new year. If you are a person who makes New Year's resolutions, or if you think you'd like to try, have you considered taking steps to have more positive health in the new year? Many well-known organizations and individuals are touting the positive impacts that physical activity can have on your health.
- The U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Regina Benjamin, has announced a call to action on walking recently.
- First Lady Michelle Obama has put a lot of effort into promoting her Let's Move! campaign for the young and, I like to think, the young at heart.
- The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends moving to improve your health in their latest issue of NIH News in Health.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tout Physical Activity as the Arthritis Pain Reliever and support a whole host of evidence-based physical activity interventions.
In Missouri, we offer several physical activity courses in areas near you to get you started, including the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program and Walk With Ease, a walking program that starts where you are at in terms of physical ability. Regardless of whether or not you choose one of our programs, physical activity can make a big, positive difference for your health.
Consider SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound) goal-setting this year. It's okay to start with a small goal that you feel confident you can accomplish, and to add additional goals throughout the year as you complete one and are ready to move to another!
Happy New Year!