November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month!

Mr. J. Brooks            (Twitter) @MrJB_16           

   

    The average adult takes 15 to 20 breaths a minute – over 20,000 breaths a day. Your respiratory system, which includes the nose, throat, windpipe    (trachea) and lungs, brings air into the body when you breathe.  In the lungs, the oxygen from each breath is transferred to the bloodstream and sent to all the body's cells as life-sustaining fuel.  Keeping your lungs healthy is an important part of an overall healthy lifestyle. Before or after your dinner try to exercise as a family either by a walk or playing catch!

   Physical fitness consists of health related fitness and skill related fitness. The term cardio-respiratory is used because it represents the cardiovascular and respiratory system working together. Cardio-respiratory fitness is the ability of the heart, blood vessels, blood and respiratory system to supply fuel and oxygen to the muscles and the ability of the muscles to utilize fuel to allow sustained exercise.

Be an Active Family

                     10 Tips

1. Set specific activity time 

Determine when the whole family is available.

2. Plan ahead and track your progress

Write your activity plans on a family calendar. Let the kids help in planning the activities.                               

  

3. Include work around the house

Involve the kids in yard work and other active chores around the house.

4. Use what is available

Plan activities that require little or no equipment or facilities.

5. Build new skills

Enroll the kids in classes they might enjoy such as gymnastics, dance, or tennis.

6. Plan for all weather conditions

Choose some activities that do not depend on the weather conditions.

7. Turn off the TV

Set a rule that no one can spend longer than 2 hours per day playing video games, watching TV, and using the computer (except for school work.)

8. Start Small

Begin by introducing one new family activity and add more when you feel everyone is ready.

9. Include other families

Invite others to join your family activities. This is a great way for you and your kids to spend time with friends while being physically active.

10. Treat the family with fun physical activity

When it is time to celebrate as a family, do something active as a reward. Plan a trip to the zoo, park, or lake to treat the family. Physical activity is important for children and adults of all ages. Being active as a family can benefit everyone. Adults need 2 ½ hours a week of physical activity, and children need 60 minutes a day.