Did you know that 1 in 4 people will have a stroke in their lifetime, and the scariest part is, it can happen to anyone—including me. I survived a carotid artery dissection and stroke, and the experience has taught me the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of these types of life-altering events. And in my case, staying healthy and exercising regularly helped in my survival and recovery.
The good news? Up to 90% of strokes are preventable. And one of the most effective ways to prevent stroke is through regular physical activity.
That's why I'm excited to take on the #GreaterThanChallenge by the World Stroke Organization this October, and I want you to join me. The challenge is all about recognizing that we are #GreaterThan the risk of stroke and taking action to protect our health. Let's make physical activity a part of our daily routine, because every step, every workout and every healthy choice we make is a step toward a healthier, stroke-free future.
To make an even bigger impact, I've partnered with Jeff Toledo, personal trainer and founder of Toledo Fit, to share some easy tips on how to incorporate physical activity into our busy lives, and he has some great advice:
Sneak in Short Bursts of Activity: Jeff suggests taking short breaks during the day to walk, stretch or do a quick set of bodyweight exercises. This can be as simple as a 5-minute walk around the office or a set of squats while waiting for your coffee to brew. These small bursts of activity add up and significantly contribute to your overall physical fitness.
Find Activities You Enjoy: Exercise doesn't have to be a chore. Jeff recommends finding activities that you genuinely enjoy, whether it's dancing, hiking, yoga or playing a sport. When you find joy in physical activity, it becomes easier to incorporate it into your daily routine.
Make It a Habit: Jeff emphasizes the importance of consistency. Set specific times for physical activity each day, just like any other appointment. Whether it's a morning walk, a lunchtime yoga session, or an evening bike ride, making physical activity a regular part of your day will help it become a natural part of your daily routine.
Let's take on the #GreaterThanChallenge together and prioritize our health by making physical activity a part of our daily lives. Remember, we are #GreaterThan the risk of stroke, and by taking small steps towards a more active lifestyle, we’re actively working to prevent stroke and improve our overall well-being. For more fitness tips and inspiration, you can follow Jeff Toledo on Instagram @toledo_fit.
Visit the World Stroke Organization to learn more and join the challenge this October in recognition of World Stroke Day on October 29.
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