The primary function of the APTA, or American Physical Therapy Association, is diagnosing and treating those suffering with physical injuries, physical conditions that affect mobility and movement dysfunctions. The APTA also focuses on enhancing overall physical health, activity and mobility of the general public. The APTA promotes exercise and weight loss as key factors in achieving physical health and optimum mobility and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
APTA and Exercise
Being overweight or obese is a leading cause of many diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. Being overweight often limits a person's ability to exercise, but exercise should not be avoided; instead, it can be modified to promote weight loss and prevent injury. According to Medical News Today, physical therapist Terry Michael states that people who are overweight or obese must follow an appropriate exercise program that includes aerobic conditioning and avoids exercise that can lead to injury. She goes on to state that modifying aerobic and strength training programs that avoid excessive stress on joints are also important and that stretching and relaxation exercises such as yoga and tai chi are essential for a well-rounded exercise program. Physical therapists are well versed in designing and implementing low impact fitness programs that promote weight loss, injury prevention and overall good health and well being.
Exercise Duration and Intensity
According to the APTA website Move Forward, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services states that adults should do aerobic exercise at a moderate intensity a minimum of 2 hours and 30 minutes per week, or 1 hour and 15 minutes a week of high intensity aerobic exercise. A combination of both moderate and high intensity exercise can also be performed to meet the suggested requirements. For children and adolescents, it suggests at least one hour of physical activity a day be executed to provide the minimum necessary to promote weight loss. In addition to aerobic activity, strength training two or three times a week at a moderate to moderate-high intensity is also important to build lean muscle, which boosts your metabolism and promotes weight loss.
Exercise Programming
Physical therapists are equipped to design safe and effective fitness programs that can accommodate weight loss and establish life-long habits of physical activity, according to Move Forward. Move Forward goes on to state that an exercise program designed by a physical therapist typically consist of strength and cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, injury prevention, balance and proper alignment. These components promote weight loss and a strong, healthy, injury-free body that is mobile, agile and strong.
Considerations
It is best to seek the advice and guidance of a medical professional before engaging in any exercise program. It is of even greater importance if there is a medical or physical ailment or limitation to consider.
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