Physical health is critical for overall well-being.

This pillar of the Movement focuses on helping women develop healthier, practical eating habits and physical activities that fit HER life, and living with and the prevention of chronic diseases.

Examples of our Physical Health Topics

  • Living with Chronic Disease: Education & Support
  • Eating Your Way
  • Move Your Way: Personalized & Practical
  • Greater Cincinnati Greenbook: Community Resource Guide

THE TRUE IMPORTANCE OF STAYING IN GOOD PHYSICAL HEALTH

Physical health can be defined as the condition of your body, which includes everything from the absence of disease to fitness level.

Our physical health can be affected by diet/nutrition, physical activity and behaviors like smoking, using drugs, level of alcohol consumption, etc.

For many women – young and older – physical health is measured by the absence of or how well major diseases are managed (diseases like include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, etc.).

  • Feeling healthy and the ability to function without hinderance = healthy.
  • Nationally, 51% of adult African Americans agree it is possible to be overweight and healthy (41% disagree).
  • More than 60% of African American adults do not meet recommendations for moderate physical activity.

HOW TO DO BETTER

Our research confirmed that African Americans know they should and need to “do better” but admit eating less healthy is the default. There is an attitude of I deserve this with food. Food is a reward, in addition to being a source of replenishment.

Let’s figure out how be more physically active and make practical adjustments that fits YOUR life.

GET INVOLVED

EXERCISING WITH BLACK HAIR

For many Black women, exercise = ruining or spending more time on her hair. We know all too well that working out with black hairstyles is a whole thing. There’s the weight of extensions, the intense fear of scalp sweat, and then there is swimming.

Work Out in Cooler Environments

Don’t work out in the hot, midday sun. Opt for classes in places that have good air conditioning to help limit sweating.

Don’t Tie Your Headscarf Too Tight

A silk hair-tie can protect from breakage. However, it can also increase sweat, which can ultimately lead to more damage.

Don’t Mess with Your Hair Until it’s Dry

Taking your hair out of its protective style when it’s still wet can increase frizz. Wait until it’s dry or use the cool setting on your hair dryer to speed it up.

Don’t Shampoo After Every Workout

Sweat is drying and so is shampoo — washing your hair too often will do double the damage to your hair. When you do shampoo your hair, make sure you use a product that’s sulphate-free.

Keep Hydrated

Drinking lots of water is great for your body, skin and will help keep your hair healthy. This is even more important when you’re exercising.