San José, Costa Rica. May, 2015.

Physical activity brings benefits in all our life contexts. For example, on an emotional and psychological level, it helps prevent depression, reduce anxiety, and releases endorphins in the body that allow us to feel better. On a social level, it improves self-esteem, confidence, and communication with others, when we are more relaxed and we have a positive attitude to face life´s situations.

On a physical level, it collaborates in controlling high blood pressure or hypertension, prevents different types of cancer such as breast or colon cancer, prevents bone and muscular injuries, as well as helps to control body weight and perform physical efforts without becoming excessively tired.

According to Francisco Herrera, physical trainer of the Clínica Bíblica Hospital, “when you wish to initiate an exercise program it should be done progressively, from 1 to 2 days a week, from 20 to 30 min maximum. As the weeks go by and your physical condition improves, you can increase the number and duration of the weekly sessions, until achieving the goal of 3 to 6 sessions per week with a duration of 45min- to 1h”.

• Undergo a medical check-up prior to the incorporation into an exercise program to guarantee your security.
• Perform an activity that you like (dance, run, etc.). This will allow you to create a habit for the rest of your life.
• Use the adequate instruments for the activity you are going to perform (tennis shoes in good condition, clothing that allows heat dissipation, sun block, etc.). This will help you to perform physical exercise safely and prevent injuries.
• Prior to, during and after the physical exercise hydrate constantly. Remember that when you are thirsty, this is already an indicator of dehydration.

“Performing physical exercise without medical supervision puts people´s health at risk, and even exposes your life to serious injuries, since neither family nor personal background nor the persons current condition, is taken into consideration” concluded Herrera.

For further information or for requesting medical attention, please call the number 2522-1000, or write to the email citas@clinicabiblica.com or contact us via chat at the website: www.clinicabiblica.com.