Father’s Day month and the start of spring is a great time for dads to think about taking some time out to exercise.   Many busy people fall out of a regular exercise routine.   It’s easy to be enthusiastic about fitness in your 20s when life doesn’t have so many moving parts.   Unfortunately men often give up exercise entirely when they no longer have the time or physical resilience to take part in organised sport.   Work and family commitments take over and it’s easy to make excuses for leading a sedentary life.

Here are five great reasons why busy dads need to be making the time to get to the gym:

Reason one – it’s good for your health    

Keeping within an appropriate weight range with a base level of fitness is the best health insurance you can invest in. There are very few medical conditions that are not exacerbated by too much weight and too little fitness.   Health is something you don't miss until it's gone, and once it's gone you can't simply buy it back. A healthy lifestyle doesn't guarantee you'll always be well, but it improves your odds and enhances your quality of life.   

Reason two – it’s good for your lean muscle mass   

Resistance training is very important to build lean muscle mass, which naturally diminishes with age.  Strong muscles, ligaments and tendons make aerobic exercise and everyday life easier.  They support joints and reduce the likelihood of aches, pains and injury.   Resistance training can increase metabolic rate up to 15% which is super helpful for weight loss and long-term weight maintenance.   Maintaining lean muscle mass gives you the leeway to have the treats you enjoy without having to carry them around on your torso.   

Reason three – it’s good for your brain   

Physical activity increases blood flow to the whole body, including your brain.  The greater the blood flow, the faster oxygen and other important nutrients can get where they need to be.  This promotes your brain’s ability to adapt and grow new brain cells regardless of your age.   Being alert, attentive and thinking clearly help you to perform at a higher level and get things done faster and better.   The time you spend exercising is made up for in greater efficiency and effectiveness for the rest of the day.   

Reason four – it’s good for your family    

A strong body and a sharp mind are great things for dads to have.  Your exercise also helps your children by setting a good example.  Studies show a significant association between parents who exercise and children who exercise in later life.  Normalise physical activity as part of life and your children will grow up with the expectation of participating in exercise and taking pride in their health. 

Reason five - It’s easy once you get started  

Attending the gym is the easiest, most efficient way to meet your fitness goals.   It’s not weather dependent and you can attend at the time that best fits with your work and family commitments.   If you choose the right type of exercise you might even have fun.   The journey towards good health can be as rewarding as the destination. 

Les Mills Takapuna, Rooftop Level, Shore City, Takapuna 0800 LES MILLS lesmills.co.nz claire@clairebellingham.co.nz