Preventive maintenance exercises are designed to keep you healthy, prevent injury and illness, and prolong your life. According to the Canadian Chiropractic Association, while periodic checkups, adjustments and exercise tests are an integral part of the holistic approach to health, regular preventive maintenance also plays a significant role.
Theories
In her book "The Simple Living Guide," Janet Luhrs reports that exercise in general is preventive maintenance that supports a long, healthy life. Performing exercises on a regular basis is beneficial both physically and psychologically. Periodic forays into extensive pursuits such as a long hike or an extended round of golf challenge the body in new ways that signal how well the regular maintenance programs have fared.
Features
Chiropractors commonly prescribe treatments designed as preventive maintenance exercises in wellness care. According to the Canadian Chiropractic Association, a holistic approach to wellness includes regular exercise, diet, body positioning and posture realignment, safety, and lifestyle changes. In addition to providing hands-on preventive manipulations from the doctor, a preventive program relies on patient participation for its success.
Function
Since so many diseases and injuries are related to obesity, preventive maintenance exercise also can help you focus on weight management. Periodic assessments of your weight are important tests to gauge your success. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, more than two-thirds of Americans are overweight. Losing even 2% or 3% of your total body weight can prevent many obesity-related diseases. Periodic checkups comparing your level of intensity when you exercise can help you determine if you are working out hard enough to continue maintaining a healthy weight.
Benefits
Periodic preventive maintenance exercise should be performed in some form most days of the week. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the benefits of daily exercise include prevention of diabetes and heart disease. For seniors experiencing declining health, periodic reviews of their exercise programs should include flexibility and functional assessments and range of motion exercises. Additionally, preventive exercise increases independence levels for seniors and improves mood and reflexes.
Considerations
In addition to taking care of your body with periodic and regular physical challenges, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends performing a periodic checkup of your home to assess its safety or lack thereof. You should include an exercise in assessing various home features on a regular basis to prevent injuries. Features to check include placement of slippery area rugs, stability of stairs and handrails, and sufficient lighting where needed. Bathroom fixtures, excessive clutter and wobbly chairs must be periodically fixed and replaced.
References
- Canadian Chiropractic Association: Preventive Maintenance Care
- The Simple Living Guide by Janet Luhrs: Exercise Is Preventive Maintenance
- American College of Sports Medicine: Prevent Weight Gain
- American College of Sports Medicine: Exercise Before and After Heart Disease
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Home Safety
- Cleveland Clinic: Exercise Guidelines for Seniors
