East Michigan News

Technology, particularly cell phones, facilitates connectivity and provides extensive knowledge access. However, it may hinder physical fitness efforts.

Rick Ferkel, a member of Central Michigan University’s Physical Education and Sport faculty, discussed the relationship between technology and exercise goals. He noted that interactive technology, such as social media and video games, primarily offers entertainment and pleasure. "Overall, exercise is in direct opposition to this mindset," he said. While some enjoy exercising for its own sake, most people appreciate the mental, cognitive, and physical benefits it brings.

According to Ferkel, only 24.2 percent of people consistently exercise (CDC, 2022). Interactive technology continually triggers dopamine releases in the brain similar to gambling behaviors. This instant gratification competes with the delayed gratification of exercise. The latter involves effort but results in long-term benefits.

Ferkel emphasized that constant access to interactive technology makes it harder to engage in physical activity. Technology stimulates brain areas associated with impulse control rather than higher-order thinking skills like self-control and problem-solving. This can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as poor diet choices and excessive screen time while reducing the likelihood of engaging in healthy activities like exercise.

Research suggests excessive technology use can decrease physical activity levels, sleep quality, cognition (memory and focus), increase body weight (risking obesity), cause poor posture, mental health issues (depression, anxiety), and behavioral problems (moodiness).

Ferkel recommended reading "The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness" by Dr. Jonathan Haidt and "Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence" by Dr. Anna Lembke for further insights into these issues.

He also highlighted Newton’s First Law of Motion: starting an exercise plan requires an initial choice to act despite technological distractions offering immediate pleasure. For those heavily engaged with technology, beginning an exercise routine necessitates significant motivation.

Exercise should start small with gradual increases but must commence with a conscious decision. Evaluating how much technology hinders this process is crucial. Some use technology positively to assist their fitness routines; this approach can be productive if balanced correctly.

Time management plays a significant role in maintaining fitness habits amidst recreational technology use ranging from 3-7 hours daily on average.

Social media platforms and modern video games have been designed using neuroscience research to trigger substantial dopamine releases akin to addictive substances like cocaine or sexual intercourse.

While acknowledging that technology isn't disappearing anytime soon and can aid certain individuals in tracking their fitness progress effectively; Ferkel stressed finding balance as key due to its potential consumption impact on time management essential for pursuing regular exercise habits.

 

Rick Ferkel holds academic qualifications from Texas Tech University (doctorate), Ashland University (master's degree), Bowling Green State University (bachelor's degree).