Invest in Your Health

Contributed by Joe Bocek, Fitness Director SPORT FIT Severna Park

In some way, the current state of the economy has probably affected you. Many people are afraid to invest in the stock market and some are even cashing out their 401(k)s. So what does the economy have to do with your health? A lot actually. If you are concerned about the downward trend of Wall Street’s investments, and possibly your own, try empowering yourself by investing in something with a better return, your health.

Don’t get me wrong, buying low and selling high is way to go, but what good is that profit if you aren’t able to put it to use and enjoy it? Let’s quickly examine three areas of your body where you can invest a small amount of time and still receive maximum payoff.

First, your heart: heart disease is tops when it comes to shortening retirement. Securing a healthy heart, lower blood pressure and maybe even lower cholesterol are ways we can profit. Something as simple as beginning a walking program can start your health portfolio. The B&A trail or even the sidewalks in your community are free, and something as easy as 20 minutes can give you these big payoffs. And if you were to get hooked on this health investment, the possibilities to take it to the next level are endless, such as a stronger heart and stress reduction. We can also cash out this investment with greater endurance, better lung capacity and even better regulated blood sugar.

Next, your muscles: whether you want your health portfolio to look impressive or help get you through the day a little easier, this is an area you should not neglect. A home workout with exercise bands and dumbbells or visiting the gym and doing some exercises there can show you upward progress week by week. Muscles burn most of your calories, and toning them will help you look better in your clothes. Your dividends here can include better strength, more muscle tone, increased energy, and greater bone density.

Lastly, your joints: that’s right, even just a little more movement can keep this part of you weathering the storm of time. Some good stretching can increase your range of motion, while strengthening the muscles associated with each joint can help to maintain joint integrity and even decrease pain over time. Increasingly, researchers have found that movement can be the key to reducing some of the effects, and possibly the onset, of arthritis. Even if your financial position is rigid, that doesn’t mean your body has to be.

Of course for more ways to get the most out these focus areas, be sure to seek out a professional. If you begin investing in yourself and your health today, by the time the market turns around it will be more than just your financial advisor who sees the difference.