This is what physiotherapist Mark Abildhauge says in a new kick-off video we have created for employees at a large Danish company. And it is an extremely important message.
Last week, Lars ‘only’ reached 138 Hearts instead of the 150 Hearts recommended by the World Health Organization. But Lars is still happy. After all, he kept moving and achieved more than nothing, which could easily have been the alternative after a tough week.
Sometimes you simply don’t have the energy, and that’s when it’s important to listen to your body. This is where heart rate is such a useful tool. It’s okay not to reach your goal every week. The most important thing is that you still do something and appreciate what you achieve, because a little is 100% better than nothing.
Why is it important to stay physically active? As Lars L. Andersen from the National Research Centre for the Working Environment (NFA) says in a LinkedIn post, physical activity can be associated with up to a 26% lower risk of severe stress. At the same time, there is plenty of evidence that physical activity can reduce the risk of conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer, while supporting brain health and potentially reducing the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Our bodies don’t really care what kind of activity we do. What matters is that we move and get our heart rate up. So when we set a goal that is often too high and unrealistic, and only one thing counts, such as steps or kilometres, there is a much greater chance of failing. And when that happens, we often stop altogether. Then the same thing happens again the next time, and the next time, and the next time.
That’s why Tæl Hjerter is the easy choice and the right tool to help people become and stay physically active and find a sustainable pace at work:
First, every activity counts. From taking the stairs and doing squats by the coffee machine to cycling to and from work or going for a walk. As long as you get your heart rate up, it counts.
Second, you can set your goal based on your individual capacity, with a minimum of 150 Hearts, corresponding to the WHO’s minimum recommendation for physical activity.
Third, community is at the heart of Tæl Hjerter. When we count Hearts together as a company, we create momentum, community and more energy – and that can ultimately be seen on the bottom line.
