Motion is Lotion
Ever heard of the phrase use it or lose it?
Probably, yes. But have you ever thought about it in the context of your body?
Movement breeds movement. And if we aren’t doing it consistently over time, our bodies tend to tighten, stiffen and lose range of motion to the point where movement becomes uncomfortable.
And when it becomes uncomfortable it tends to breed even less movement. A viscous downward spiral I see way too often.
I don’t know about you, but as I get older I want to make sure that my ability to move is maximized, not minimized.
So, I think of motion as lotion. And as you can see below, it’s not just a catchy slogan that rhymes! It has real application throughout a number of systems within our bodies:
MUSCLE: There are about 600 muscles in our body which can make up to 40% of our total body weight. Movement not only strengthens muscles but also improves stability, balance, and coordination.
BONE: Movement helps build bone density making bones more durable and dense. Resistance training and weight bearing exercise, as simple as walking, build more bone density.
JOINTS: exercise increases coordination and balance which aids in improving your joints’ range of motion.
BRAIN FUNCTION: Movement improves your neuromuscular system which is the connection between your mind and body. This is especially important as we age to fight cognitive decline.
CARDIOVASCULAR & CARDIORESPIRATORY (aka Heart & Lungs): According to the British Heart Foundation, 10,000 fatal heart attack can be prevented each year by consistently moving 30-60 minutes a day. It improves your heart’s capacity to send blood to muscles which in turn increases your capacity to use oxygen to improve your cardiorespiratory endurance.
So many benefits there for the taking. So, grab ‘em! Use motion as lotion to do it. Just know that like practically every other daily routine you do to take care of yourself (i.e showering, deodorant, teeth brushing, etc), consistency is key.
Remember, give your body what it needs, when it needs it … and it needs motion!
#TrainForLiFE
J. Antonio Muyco, III, NSCA, PPSC, CSCS
Director of Training
Functional Elements Training & Nutrition
