Why Movement Matters More Than You Think
When most people think of exercise, they imagine six-packs, sweat, and sculpted physiques. But what if we told you that movement has far more important—and lasting—benefits than just looking good?
At Chipperfield, we believe movement is medicine. Whether you're striving to feel stronger, stay independent, or simply move through your day with less effort and more energy, physical activity is your most powerful tool. In this post, we’ll explore the different types of movement—from everyday chores to structured workouts—and how each one supports your health.
Physical Activity vs. Exercise: What’s the Difference?
All movement counts. That’s the good news.
Physical activity includes any movement that uses energy—like gardening, vacuuming, walking to the store, or playing with your dog.
Exercise, by contrast, is planned and repetitive. It’s designed to improve your fitness and health over time.
Both are valuable. But structured exercise is where we see the most measurable benefits—especially when it includes aerobic and anaerobic components.
Benefits of Aerobic Exercise
Think: walking, dancing, swimming, biking—anything that gets your heart rate up for a sustained period.
Aerobic exercise is your best friend when it comes to:
Improved cardiovascular health – Strengthens your heart and lungs, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Enhanced stamina and energy – Makes daily tasks feel easier and less tiring.
Better weight management – Helps regulate metabolism and burn calories.
Mood & mental health support – Triggers the release of endorphins (your natural feel-good chemicals).
Higher quality sleep – Regulates your body clock and improves deep sleep.
Lower blood pressure and cholesterol – Improves vascular health and reduces inflammation.
Even 20–30 minutes a few times a week makes a difference.
Benefits of Anaerobic Exercise
This includes strength training, climbing stairs, doing squats or resistance band work. It’s typically short, intense bursts of effort that focus on muscle, bone, and power.
Anaerobic exercise helps:
Build and maintain muscle mass – Crucial for staying strong and preventing age-related muscle loss.
Increase bone density – Helps prevent osteoporosis and fractures.
Enhance balance and coordination – Key for fall prevention and daily stability.
Improve metabolic function – Helps regulate blood sugar and boosts insulin sensitivity.
Boost physical independence – Supports your ability to carry groceries, rise from a chair, or walk stairs safely.
It’s never too late to start strength work—our team regularly helps clients in their 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond build strength safely at home.
Takeaway
Movement doesn’t just change how you look. It changes how you live.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your fitness, focusing on both aerobic and anaerobic movement can help you feel better, move better, and stay independent longer.
Need help getting started? Our team of Physiotherapists, Kinesiologists, and Rehab Assistants is here to support you—wherever you’re at in your journey.
👉 Book a session with us today and let’s move toward better health—together.
