Exercise can help prevent chronic health conditions like obesity and arthritis, boost confidence and self-esteem by adding a feeling of strength and attractiveness as well as the knowledge you are doing something good for your body. These are just a few of the benefits from exercise regardless of age, sex or physical ability.
1. Exercise improves your mood.
If you need to blow off some steam after a stressful day, a good workout at the gym or a brisk 30-minute walk can help you calm down.
Exercise stimulates various brain chemicals, which may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed than you were before you worked out. You'll also look better and feel better when you exercise regularly. This can boost your confidence and improve your self-esteem. Exercise even reduces feelings of depression and anxiety. If you tend to reach for a beer, try reaching for the treadmill it will help in a lot more ways.
2. Exercise combats chronic diseases.
Regular exercise can help you prevent, or manage, high blood pressure. Your cholesterol will benefit, too. Regular exercise boosts high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good," cholesterol while decreasing low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad," cholesterol. This one-two punch keeps your blood flowing smoothly by lowering the buildup of plaques in your arteries.
Regular exercise can also help you prevent Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and certain types of cancer.
3. Exercise helps you manage your weight.
We all know that when you exercise, you burn calories. The more intensely you exercise, the more calories you burn - and the easier it is to keep your weight under control. You don't need to set aside major chunks of time for working out. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk during your lunch break. Turn off the TV and take a brisk walk. Dedicated workouts are great, but activity you accumulate throughout the day helps you burn calories, too. You'll keep the weight off, or take it off, and feel better.
4. Exercise strengthens your heart and lungs.
Exercise delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps improve your entire cardiovascular system. The circulation of blood through your heart and blood vessels, work more efficiently. When your heart and lungs work more efficiently, you'll have more energy to do the things you enjoy. With more energy, you'll be able to accomplish more, spend more time with your family, etc. All this promotes the positive cycle of attitude, self-confidence and stress reduction.
5. Exercise promotes better sleep.
A good night's sleep can improve your concentration, productivity and mood. Regular exercise is sometimes the key to better sleep. Regular exercise can help you fall asleep faster and deepen your sleep.
6. Exercise can be fun!
Exercise doesn't have to feel like a chore. Take a fitness boxing class. Check out a local climbing wall or hiking trail. Push your kids on the swings or climb with them on the jungle gym. Plan a neighborhood kickball or touch football game. Find an activity you enjoy, and go for it. If you're moving, it counts!