Exercise Benefits
James O'Brien provides advice on the benefits of getting regular exercise.
If you are ready to start feeling healthier, more energized, and more excited about living, there is one answer: Exercise.
Exercise can benefit your health in countless different ways. This is true for every single person, no matter how young or old they are. Suppose you are still on the fence about starting a regular exercise routine. In that case, the information below outlines seven excellent benefits of exercise that can help you live the healthiest, most fulfilling life possible.
Regular physical activity makes it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
People who exercise regularly are a lot less likely to be overweight or obese. Anytime you are physically active, your body uses extra calories. As a general rule of thumb, the total number of calories you burn goes up as the intensity of the exercise increases.
Hitting the gym is always a viable option. If you do not have time to fit in a traditional workout, however, do not fret. You can still find ways to get active. Even activities like walking up the stairs at work or cleaning your house when you get home can help keep you moving so that you burn more calories and get in better shape.
Exercising can help reduce the risk of certain health problems.
High blood pressure, heart disease, and other conditions are less likely to occur when you get regular exercise. Increasing your activity level can help increase the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in your blood. At the same time, it also helps reduce triglyceride levels. As a result, your blood flows better through your body, which can minimize your chances of developing problems with your cardiovascular system.
Staying active can also make it easier to manage, treat, or prevent several other health issues such as type II diabetes, anxiety and depression, metabolic syndrome, and high blood pressure. Conditions like arthritis can also improve. The risk of serious problems like cancer or stroke tends to decrease, as well. Looking at the complete picture, the overall risk of dying decreases. At the same time, exercise can help boost your cognitive ability.
Exercising can enhance your mood.
Whether you are dealing with high-stress levels or are feeling down, exercising can help you feel better. When you exercise, your brain releases feel-good chemicals, which can give you a more positive outlook on life. Physical activity also helps relieve stress.
In terms of your confidence and your self-image, exercise can also be beneficial. When you are fit and healthy, you tend to view yourself more favourably.
You may sleep better at night.
If you are having trouble sleeping, exercise may be able to help. People who exercise tend to drift off to sleep more quickly. They also tend to sleep more deeply during the night. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that you should not exercise directly before you go to bed. Otherwise, you may have a harder time falling asleep because of your increased energy levels.
Exercise can help you feel more passionate.
Regular exercise can give you more energy, but it can also help you feel better about your appearance. As a result, you may find physical intimacy more enjoyable.
There is a lower risk of problems like erectile dysfunction in men who regularly exercise than in men who do not exercise. Similarly, women who exercise regularly may experience improved arousal.
You can have a lot of fun while exercising.
Do not think of exercise as hard work. Instead, think of it as a chance to have some fun. There are plenty of enjoyable activities that you can try. Whether you want to spend time outdoors or exercise with friends, you can turn it into an enjoyable hobby.
Why not try your hand at dancing? If you prefer, you could go for a hike. If there is a local soccer club in your area, consider signing up for a team. Search for activities that you like so that you feel excited about exercising. You may even want to get a friend to do it with you so that you are more likely to stick with it for the long haul.
Getting the Most Out of Exercise
Starting a regular exercise routine is one of the best things you can do for your health, happiness, and well-being. According to the HHS, adults who are in good health should aim for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. For vigorous activity, they should aim for a minimum of 75 minutes each week. If you prefer, you can also alternate between moderate and vigorous activity. Some activities you may want to try to include are swimming, hiking, or jogging. Try to incorporate weightlifting or bodyweight exercises a couple of times each week to help build muscle.
If possible, spread your activity out over a week instead of doing it all at the same time. If you are trying to reach a specific weight-loss goal, consider increasing the amount of time that you spend exercising.
Always talk to your doctor before you begin an exercise regimen. This is particularly true if you have not exercised for quite a while or if you have a health condition like arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes.
Page Reference
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- O'BRIEN, J. (2019) Exercise Benefits [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/articles/article434.htm [Accessed
About the Author
James O'Brien is a regular runner and has completed two marathons in the last five years. He has suffered numerous injuries in his time and has taken an interest in prevention rather than cure. He is also a father of two children and has a dog.