Jason Ridgel, M.D.

Family Practice

Jason Ridgel, MD, received his bachelor's degree from the College of William and Mary in Virginia. He attended Marshall University School of Medicine where he received a doctorate degree and completed his Family Medicine residency where he was appointed Chief Resident.

In keeping with his Family Medicine training, Dr. Ridgel enjoys caring for patients of all ages. He manages chronic diseases, acute illness and counsels patients in preventative health. Dr. Ridgel provides office procedures including mole removal, wart treatment and routine gynecologic care. Dr. Ridgel and his staff are committed to care for your whole family, and will make every attempt to make same day appointments for his patients.

Contact Information

440-934-0276
5323 Meadow Lane Court, Suite A, Sheffield Village, OH 44035
More About Our Sheffield Village Location

Articles

An Exercise Prescription

Does the thought of Exercise conjure up images of sweat, tears, and torture machinery? Have you wondered why there is so much fuss about the health benefits of exercise? Here are some facts and tips to show you how easy and rewarding a new exercise program can be.

First of all, exercise does not need to be time consuming. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends that you exercise for just 30 minutes 5 times a week. This does not have to be done on a routine, but most people will find it easier to stick with a program if it is written on their calendar. It is also helpful to exercise with a friend, family member, or pet. This provides additional incentive to stick to your plan. If you have a specific goal like weight loss, you may need to commit more time to your program but most of the health benefits will be seen with 30 minutes.

Exercise does not need to be hard. Most people are surprised to hear that brisk walking burns nearly as many calories per hour as running. Your target heart rate is easy to calculate and should guide you to know how hard to exercise. Simply subtract your age from 220 [220 - Age = Target Heart rate]. When you exercise, stop and count your pulse. It should be 60-80% of your target heart rate during most of your workout [0.6 or .8 x Target Heart rate]. If you are close to this number then you are getting the health benefits of exercise. For example, a 40 year old man would calculate 220 - 40 = 180. Multiply 180 x 0.6 = 108. He should keep his heart rate at 108 when he starts exercising.

There is no reason exercise should be boring as there are so many different ways to exercise. There are 2 main types of exercise: anaerobic and aerobic. Anaerobic exercises such as strength training (lifting weights) consist of short but intense efforts. Weight training is good for toning and sculpting muscles but does not give you the cardiovascular benefits that will keep your heart and blood vessels healthy. Aerobic exercise means any activity which keeps your pulse up at that 60-80% level for 30 minutes. This can be done walking your dog, shooting hoops with your child, or taking a hike with a friend. Some people enjoy dancing, swimming, or even certain active video games. If you own some equipment, put a TV in front of that treadmill and walk while you watch your evening news. Join a walking/hiking club, or try spinning classes. Feel free to mix it up and change routines often as there are so many different types of exercise out there.

Everyone knows that exercise is good for you but just what does it do? There has been a large amount of research on this topic and good news continues to be reported. Exercising improves your heart and lung function meaning you will live longer. Most types of exercise strengthen your bones preventing osteoporosis. Chemicals called endorphins are created during exercise that make you feel better in general and improve depression. Mental stress is relieved during physical exertion helping prevent anxiety attacks and mood disorders If you are a diabetic, your sugar levels will improve with exercise. If you are overweight, exercising will contribute to weight loss which will have multiple health benefits.

If your doctor gives you a prescription for exercise, don't sweat it. Pick your favorite activities, plan a schedule, and enjoy all of the benefits of regular exercise.