‘Move More’ Month occurs in Spring because the season naturally encourages us to get outside, engaging with outdoor activities and movement.
After the colder months of winter, Spring brings warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours, and an overall sense of renewal. This makes it an ideal time for you to look at your exercise regime and seize the motivation to get active.
The American Heart Association
The American Heart Association (AHA) promotes ‘Move More’ Month to raise awareness about the importance of regular physical activity for heart health.
‘Move More’ Month started as a National Walking Day but was expanded to support the positive impact that all exercise has and the benefit of embedding these habits over a more extended time period.
‘Move More’ Month encompasses all types of exercise so that there is something for everyone, as you are more likely to continue an activity that you enjoy. The spirit is that the awareness campaign encourages beginners or those who have not been active for a while to take their first steps back to fitness or, for people who enjoy regular exercise, to do more and/or assist others to get involved. It is not about intense workouts but the benefits of all activities and how small steps can have a big impact on physical and mental wellbeing.
Ways to ‘Move More’
Activity can always be adapted to your ability so do not let a disability or weakness hold you back.
Even some simple stretching or light weight work will increase arm strength, flexibility, and tone.
If you use mobility aids or a wheelchair you can participate in Move More Month with adapted exercise routines.
AmeriDisability highlights the importance of exercise for disabled people, emphasizing the benefits of managing weight, strengthening bones and muscles, reducing risk of some cancers and heart issues, whilst promoting good mental health and wellbeing.
Progress over Perfection
‘Move More’ Month is about progress, not perfection. Every movement counts as the overall goal is to find activities that feel good and are enjoyable, to support overall health.
At its core, ‘Move More’ Month promotes:
- Heart Health – An active lifestyle uses the heart more regularly, strengthening it and thus reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health issues.
- Small Changes – Change can feel overwhelming so ‘Move More’ Month embraces small changes for the incremental benefits. Even short bursts of movement such as 20 mins aerobic activity, or an extra 1000 steps a day add up and make a difference.
- Inclusivity – Movement is not just for the athletic. Exercise is for everyone, regardless of fitness level or ability.
- Fun & Motivation – ‘Move More’ Month is about inspiring you to increase your activity levels to do the things that you enjoy. Activity should be enjoyable, not a chore.
Finding activities and movement that you enjoy will not only put a spring in your step, but it will also put a smile on your face as you feel happier and healthier due to the release of endorphins and the sense of wellbeing.
Spring is a great time to develop new habits that you can carry on throughout the rest of the year. The important thing is to get started and get moving!
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