Kick Off Your Health Journey

If you spent the winter pushing aside your healthy habits for dinner parties and cocktails, that’s okay—let’s get back on track. If you are enrolled in the HOP Medical Plan or the Pre-65 Medical Plan, you have access to the SilverSneakers exercise program.

Being physically active and eating healthy foods can benefit everyone. Refocus on your health with these quick tips:

• Limit portion size: Be mindful of what a portion size is. It is often less than we realize.
• Add healthy snacks throughout the day: Choose an apple or a handful of peanuts instead of those crunchy chips.
• Engage in physical activity: Even a little bit can go a long way.
• Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your weight.

Benefits of exercise

Having an active lifestyle has many benefits, not just on the scale. Exercise can help lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and certain cancers. Regular exercise may help you with your daily activities and help you keep up with grandchildren, prevent falls, and stay independent.

How much exercise do you need?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that adults get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, each week. Using the “talk test,” moderate-intensity exercise is when you’re breathing hard but can still have a conversation. Vigorous exercise is when you can only say a few words before having to take a breath. But remember, you can start small and build up. Many exercises can be done in a seated position, so you can stay active at any level.

Get started with SilverSneakers and the Health Options Program

SilverSneakers is available to members enrolled in the HOP Medical Plan or the HOP Pre-65 Medical Plan. In fact, members enrolled in these plans average over seven gym visits a month! Health Options Program members enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan may also have access to a wellness program. Contact the Medicare Advantage plan directly, or visit SilverSneakers.com for more information. Always consult with your physician before beginning a physical activity program.

Sources: nia.nih.gov/health/maintaining-healthy-weight, hsph.harvard.edu/obesity-prevention-source/obesity-causes/physical-activity-and-obesity, health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-11/PAG_MYW_Adult_FS.pdf, cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm

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