You hit the gym or pound the pavement day in and day out but I bet you don’t know how inactive the American youth is today or that most homes are more than half a mile from the nearest park or fitness center. Check out all the fun and interesting facts now.
1. The human body has more than 650 muscles, all of which are made up of 79 percent water. Hydrate during especially rigorous workouts to keep your muscles are fed and fueled.
2. Almost half of the body’s weight is from one of three major types of muscle tissue: skeletal muscle tissue, which moves your bones. It’s voluntarily controlled.
3. Nearly 50 percent of American youth, ages 12 to 21, are not vigorously active. In fact, children spend, on average, more than seven and a half hours a day in front of the television. If you’re already active, be a positive influence for others. Encourage friends, children and family to get out and walk, hike, dance, ride a bike and more.
4. Approximately only one in five homes live within a half-mile of a local park, fitness center or recreation area. Make this a priority if you’re moving, or invest in bikes so it’s easy to get to the closest one.
5. About 90 percent of Americans eat more than the recommended sodium amount. However, just a decrease to 1,200 milligrams a day can save nearly $20 billion in medical costs annually.
6. It takes about 12 weeks to see a change in your body after implementing a fitness regimen. Don’t give up if you’re not seeing quick results. If you are feeling frustrated, add some smaller weekly goals to keep you motivated and help you see results in other areas.
7. mHealth (mobile health) is a $1.3 billion dollar industry comprised of health-focused mobile apps. Take advantage of this new and booming industry and download apps that help you stay on track with fitness and food. Check out these fitness apps to find one you like.
8. Nearly 35 percent of adults have metabolic syndrome, which raises your risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke and more. These people are 5 times more likely to develop diabetes and 2 times more likely to have a heart attack.
9. Most adults lose about a half-pound of muscle each year after the age of 30. While physical activity can help you age healthier, muscle tissue ages along with you, regardless.
10. It’s not advised to move into a higher weight range for strength training until you can do 12 reps comfortably, and without cheating. While you want to see change and improvement, it can be risky if you try to progress too quickly.
