Move More With Dr Hawe, Private GP

30th, May 2023

Dr Simon Hawe, NHS and Private GP holds clinics at our newer location within the Mid-Ulster Clinic in Magherafelt. This week he talks to us about the importance of movement in our daily routines.

How can physical activity benefit us?

"It's the miracle cure we’ve all been waiting for. It reduces your risk of heart disease, stroke, Type 2 Diabetes and Cancer by up to 50% and can reduce your risk of early death by up to 30%. It’s free, easy to take, has an immediate effect and you don’t need a prescription."

What is it? It’s physical activity, movement or exercise!

"Research shows that physical activity can also boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing your risk of stress, depression, dementia and Alzheimer's disease."

"If exercise were a pill, it would be one of the most cost-effective drugs ever invented,"  Dr Nick Cavill, a health promotion Consultant.

How much physical activity should we be getting? 

"Recommendations from the world health organisation suggest 150mins moderate intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week or a combination of both. But just make a start. You can gradually increase your physical activity each day over time. There is evidence that we should also do muscle strengthening activities on at least two days each week which helps prevent osteoporosis and arthritis."

So what are your top tips for increasing our physical activity? 

My top tips would be: 

• Make small changes that can increase your activity levels daily e.g. use the stairs or park further away.
• Be active with friends and family - to increase the enjoyment and encourage longevity of changes.
• Find an activity that you enjoy.
• Use an activity tracker or watch to monitor your activity.
• Create repeating habits or routines.

Get In Touch!

Dr Simon Hawe is one of Private GP’s from Kingsbridge North West located within the Mid-Ulster Clinic in Magherafelt, one of our newer Private GP Clinic locations, and offers a full range of primary care services. To book an appointment with Dr Hawe, text BOOKGP to 66777 or contact the Mid-Ulster Clinic directly on 028 7966 8380

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References:

• https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/exercise-health-benefits/
• Brendan Stubbs on Deliciously Ella podcast: How Exercise Impacts on The Brain & Our Mental Health: https://player.fm/series/2422393/218050020
• https://www.mydr.com.au/sports-fitness/physical-activity-benefits-to-your-body
• How simply moving benefits your mental health: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/how-simply-moving-benefits-your-mental-health-201603289350
• http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/content/health-pubhlth-strateg-phys-act-guidelines

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