subject: The Many Benefits Of Regular Exercise [print this page] more reliant on technology to make life easier, often times physical fitness takes a back seat to modern conveniences. The truth is, we need to make physical activity a major part of our lives to stay healthy. Studies show that regular physical activity has many, many benefits to your over all health. It helps to remember these benefits the next time you are feeling lazy and are thinking about quitting or giving up on your regular workout.
Regular exercise improves your chances of living longer. Regular exercise can improve your quality of life. Regular exercise reduces the risk of heart disease. Regular exercise helps lower high blood pressure (hypertension) and high cholesterol. Regular exercise helps protect you from developing certain cancers. Regular exercise will help prevent or control type 2 diabetes (adult-onset diabetes). Regular exercise reduces the risk of arthritis and alleviates associated symptoms. Regular exercise helps prevent osteoporosis (gradual loss of bone mass/strength). Regular exercise improves mobility and strength. Regular exercise reduces depression and anxiety. Regular exercise will help with weight loss and management.
If nothing else... Regular exercise will make you look and feel great!
Aerobic or cardio workouts improve the cardiovascular system (heart, lungs). Weight-training or strength-training improves muscular strength. Flexibility or stretching exercises improve overall mobility and coordination. You should try to incorporate all three types of exercise into your regimen if possible. They all provide different benefits, but practiced together on a regular basis will provide the greatest benefits.
If you lead an inactive or sedentary life, research shows that any increase in aerobic activity is good for you and provides benefits. Studies even show that a brisk walk for even one to two hours a week (15 to 20 minutes a day) reduces your risk of having a heart attack or stroke, developing diabetes, or premature death. Weight-bearing aerobic exercise can also strengthen joints, and improve bone strength. So, if you aren't doing any exercise currently...at least start walking!
If the health benefits aren't enough to motivate you, consider the psychological benefits of regular exercise. When you know that you are doing something positive and great for yourself, you feel great about yourself! It gives you confidence knowing that you are setting goals, working towards them, and eventually reaching them.
Regular exercise also increases serotonin and endorphins in your brain. These are the "feel good" chemicals produced in your brain when you exert yourself during physical activity. Start doing something physical on a regular basis and reap all of the positive benefits that come along with it!
