Exercise is medicine Published May 7, 2008 By Arletta Thompson 4th Aerospace Medical Squadron SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- May is the inaugural Exercise is Medicine™ month, and the Air Force is committed to encouraging physical activity for the many health benefits. The following statistics make a compelling case for fighting America's obesity epidemic. - Exercise and physical activity are powerful medicines helping prevent or treat numerous chronic conditions such as hypertension, cardiac disease and diabetes. - Research shows significant health benefits for those who engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week. - A recent survey by American College of Sports Medicine revealed four out of 10 physicians talk to their patients about the importance of exercise, but they don't always offer suggestions on the best ways to be physically active. - According to the same survey, nearly two-thirds of patients would be more interested in exercising to stay healthy if advised by their doctor and given additional resources. This is the impetus behind Exercise is Medicine™, a program of American College of Sports Medicine supported by the American Medical Association. Able patients are advised to participate in at least 30 minutes of physical activity and 10 minutes of stretching and light muscle training five days a week. To observe Exercise is Medicine™ Month, take these important steps: - Ask questions about your health status. Are you at a healthy weight? Taking your current health status into consideration, what types of exercise are best and safest for you? Is there a certified trainer or registered dietician available to improve your health? - Parents, give children the gift of lifelong wellness by being a role model and supporting them in establishing a habit of lifelong physical activity. Have fun being active as a family. There are several places here to learn more about exercise. Look for the Exercise is Medicine™ logo in the base library and clinic waiting areas. For more information, contact the Health and Wellness Center at 722-0407, Fitness Center at 722-0408 or Bellamorphosis at 722-0413. To learn more about Exercise is Medicine™, visit www.exerciseismedicine.org.