We all know that being physically active is good for you and has been linked to several health benefits ranging from weight management, brain health, bone strength and more. You may even know that it has been linked to disease prevention including some types of cancer. 

Five hours a week of moderate exercise can boost activity in the body’s cells which inhibit cancer cell growth.

“- cancer.gov

13 Reason to get off the couch

But did you know that research has now confirmed that it is linked to preventing 13 types of cancer? 

The American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute researchers have produced a new study that links exercise with a lower risk of 13 types of cancer:

1. Colon Cancer 
2. Breast Cancer
3. Endometrial Cancer
4. Oesophagal Cancer
5. Liver Cancer
6. Stomach Cancer
7. Kidney Cancer
8. Myeloid Leukaemia
9. Multiple myeloma, a blood cancer
10. Cancers of the head and neck
11. Cancers of the rectum
12. Bladder Cancer 
13. Lung Cancer

Exercise is so beneficial because it assists in reducing inflammation in the body, it feeds the cells with oxygen-rich blood, keeping them healthier, it helps with weight control and boosts the body’s natural immune system with vitality inducing endorphins. 

So how much exercise should I be doing? 

It is recommended that adults do 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate activity or 1.25 to 2.5 hours of vigorous activity a week. For a couch potato, that sounds like a lot but it’s only 30 minutes a day for 5 days a week… you could even do it in your lunch break!

Moderate exercise includes activities like swimming, a brisk walk, golf or even cleaning your house! As long as you’re getting your heart rate up while burning some calories.

Are you someone who hates exercise? 

Here are 5 ways that you can start becoming more active, that dare we say it, might be fun.

1. Try activities that you used to love as a child. Were you a swimmer, on the netball or rugby team or were you on your way to being one of the Williams’ sisters? Try doing these activities again and see if your love for them returns. 
2. They say misery loves company so why not join a walking or running group or join a class at the gym. 
3. Get out of your comfort zone and try something new, maybe get your salsa on or take a stab at becoming a prima ballerina by taking a dance class. Not your cup of tea? Why not hit some killer waves and learn to surf.
4. Change up your weekend plans from fine dining or drinks plans to a walk in the park or a good old fashioned cricket match.
5. Do some household chores and make the most of the benefits… getting fitter and a clean house.