Even former athletes are at greater risk for heart disease, cancer and other maladies if they no longer get 30 minutes of moderate exercise five or more days per week, as recommended by the U.S. Surgeon General.
Physical activity also offers psychological benefits, including relief from depression, reduced anxiety, and improved mood, concentration and sleep.
From the University of Indianapolis� Krannert School of Physical Therapy, with graduate programs ranked in the top 10 percent nationally by U.S. News and World Report, Assistant Professor Anne Mejia Downs offers fitness tips for fans who can�t turn away from the gridiron action:
- Stand for part of the game instead of sitting � do wall squats, march in place or balance on one leg at a time
- While sitting, do chair push-ups, neck rotation and extension, or repeated lifts of a full beverage can or other object
- Lie on the floor for hamstring stretches, leg lifts and push ups
- Do a "touchdown dance� at the appropriate time
- If you�re attending the game, walk around during breaks, or park farther away and enjoy the atmosphere of other fans walking through the city.
University of Indianapolis; Newswise
