ENCORE: In the Grips of “Twin Pandemics,” Part 1

Covid-19 may finally be receding, but we remain in the grips of “twin pandemics”, according to today’s guest, Dr. Ross Arena, professor of physiology and developer of the HL-PIVOT program. Far exceeding the death toll from Covid-19 are avoidable deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs). These are largely attributable to physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyle—now a worldwide crisis. Lack of physical fitness has been demonstrated to be a crucial determinant of the severity of Covid-19 infections—and the likelihood of dying. The current pandemic is thus a call-to-action to increase resilience through healthy lifestyle promotion—that’s HL-PIVOT’s mission. Dr. Arena discusses how health inequities have only been exacerbated by Covid-19; he emphasizes that we must go from a reactionary healthcare system to one more grounded in prevention. He says exercise doesn’t have to be heroic; dividends accrue if you just sit less and move more—any movement is beneficial. He discusses how he and his family have remained active during lockdown. Exercise also delivers benefits for enhancing mood and alleviating stress. Click HERE for part 2.