Physical exercise even improves libido, say Folha readers

Starting a workout and making it part of your routine is a challenge for most people. Although the beginning is difficult, it is necessary to have patience and focus on the results you want to achieve. This advice was given by most readers of the Sheet, who shared tips on how to develop the habit of physical activity.

According to research published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine, people who do muscle-strengthening activities and aerobic exercise on a regular basis may live longer. But Brazil is far from being an example in this matter. In a survey conducted by IPsos with 28 other countries, Brazilians lead the ranking of worst adherence to physical exercise. That’s why we asked readers about their activity routine and how to keep practicing.

Some started exercising on medical advice, such as the 49-year-old electrician Welton Luz Lopes, from Nova Iguaçu (RJ), who, when visiting an endocrinologist to treat the sequelae left by Covid-19, was advised to look for a gym and start training. “Three months later, I feel an internal rejuvenation. Today it is so good, I can’t think of not going”, he says.

The same happened with Claudia Immezi Alvarenga, 53, from São Paulo (SP). She started exercising regularly four years ago because of hepatic steatosis (accumulation of fat in the liver). Today, the entrepreneur walks about six kilometers four times a week and practices pilates. “A few months ago I reduced my walking and my body felt it. It was only to resume that everything got better!”.

Also, according to Ipsos, lack of time and financial conditions are among the main reasons why Brazilians do not exercise. But it is possible to find alternatives in the midst of the day to day rush. Cycling, running on the street or in parks and taking daily walks are great alternatives.

This is the case of professor Flávio Rocha Pereira, 37, who from Monday to Friday goes to work in Goiânia by bicycle and then still faces the gym. Dentist Heládio Meira, 65, from São Paulo, says he abandoned his car and now does all his activities on foot, walking about 12 kilometers a day.

There are also several reports of benefits: more disposition, more health, improved self-esteem, decreased back and muscle pain. Police chief Carlos José Paschoal, 60, from São Paulo (SP), reports: “I see the result in mood, in work, in libido, in human relationships and in the results of periodic medical exams”.

If even after these reports you still have trouble getting started, there are some other tips that will make a difference. Luiz Pereira de Castro, 82, a massage therapist from Santo André, says: “Start an activity that gives you pleasure. It is extremely necessary that you change some habits related to food”. It also reinforces the need to look for a professional and reliable sources for health advice.

Psychologist Queirilane Costa Alves, 29, from Camaçari (BA), recommends starting slowly: 30 minutes a few times a week, for example. It is essential to treat this moment as a commitment, as well as work. Finally, she reinforces: “Start with love for yourself and your body”.