Physical activity levels in Western countries have significantly declined over the years, with sedentary jobs increasing by 83% since the 50s. The technological advancements and reliance on labor-saving devices have led to a more sedentary lifestyle. This shift has resulted in fewer adults meeting the recommended daily amount of physical activity, which includes 150 minutes of cardiovascular activity per week and two sessions of resistance training. The engineered environment has reduced the natural movement patterns, leading to a higher dependency on screens and chairs, contributing to decreased physical activity levels.
According to some estimates, only 5% of people in the West get the recommended amount of daily physical activity. Is the solution getting a fitness tracker, developing more discipline, or buying a piece of cardio equipment for your basement?
My guest would say none of the above, and would have you think about kids playing at recess instead.
Darryl Edwards is the founder of the Primal Play Method. Today on the show, we discuss the epidemic of sedentariness which besets both adults and children and why technology and willpower isn’t the cure for it. Darryl then explains why a better solution to getting more movement and physical activity in our lives is rediscovering the intrinsically motivating pleasure of play. He offers suggestions on how to do that, including compiling a play history for your life, embracing “primal movements” that will get you moving like an animal and a child, and getting over the fear of looking goofy while doing so. We discuss the joys and health benefits of exploring your capabilities and environment and how to incorporate more movement into your busy adult life by making even regular activities more playful.
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