| joe neel - Modern society has done a great job of engineering physical activity out of the day. Stuck at computers all day or behind the wheel, it’s no wonder we feel mushy-headed and lethargic!
The ‘80s aerobics crazes was one of the first big attempts to energize America and make us healthier through regular workouts. But so far, much of the emphasis has been on getting physical in leisure time.
Now, there’s a “micro-exercise” movement to get people active all-day long, during work and school.
Experts say these mini-exercise breaks do more than get your heart rate up. True, exercise can’t make you smarter. But even after moderate exercise, the brain works more efficiently, experts say.
Joining us to answer your questions on exercise and the “micro-exercise” movement are Dave Spurlock and Dr. Toni Yancey.
Dave Spurlock is a 30-year veteran of teaching physical education to kids, and now oversees phys-ed for the Charleston County, S.C., school system.
In Charleston, he’s trying to revamp old-style recess, to make it less about winning the race and more about kids doing their personal physical best. He’s also and advocate of mini exercise breaks and incorporating as much movement as possible into a kid’s day.
Antronette K. Yancey, MD, MPH is currently a professor in the Department of Health Services, UCLA School of Public Health, with primary research interests in chronic disease prevention and adolescent health promotion. | 