Unit Three Ethical Issue: Exercise...is the concept working?

If Exercise Works: Why are we so FAT?

Exercise has a substancial number of benefits. Studies have shown a correlation between exercise and the improvement of cardiorespiratory endurance. Exercise helps prevent weight gain because muscles metabolize faster than other tissues. A favorable change in body composition is often coupled with exercise. Exercise seems to prevent certain kinds of cancer as well as depression. So why aren't we exercising? (she types after having spent multiple hours herself sitting in front of a computer desk).

For many, exercising is an inconvenience. Sure, some of us are within walking distance to the grocery store. With the increase of gas prices it would be sensible to walk to pick up dinner ingredients. Though in a society where we are stretched for time, one likely wouldn't have time to walk to the store and make dinner. One or the other. Most choose to drive to the store to save time. The fast-paced environment we are living in has a lot to do with our daily activities.

Also, safety and security concerns may limit a person's amount of exercise. As a woman, there are certain areas that I personally would not be comfortable working out in. Gym memberships are expensive, so while an alternative to outside exercise--it is not a practical alternative for everyone. Advances in technology have both propelled and inhibited us. Physical exercise is being replaced with mental exercise in the form of video games or television entertainment. Opportunities such as online classes encourage a degree of physical inactivity.

Lack of time, safety, and money seem to be major factors as to why people do not exercise. Taking the initiative to start community wide exercise programs would give some the incentive and support they need to begin an exercise program individually or within their family. As a society, we have gotten into a habit of increasing our mental activity and decreasing our physical activity. As a whole, we need to find time to balance the two.