Seven Great Reasons to Start Exercising
Physical Fitness Improves Health and Enhances Quality of LIfe
Dec 28, 2008
People often make New Year’s resolutions with healthier health habits topping the list of positive changes that can be made in their life. Much of life is outside of an individual’s control, but there are improvements that people can make to improve their life. Diet and exercise are two of the top improvements that most people can easily implement.
One of the best lifestyle improvements a person can make is to include exercise in his routine. Exercise is important for weight loss and disease prevention. Following are some of the great reasons to make exercise part of the routine.
Seven Great Reasons to Exercise
People may need to be reminded of the importance of exercise. The Mayo Clinic website has compiled seven reasons to exercise, which are sure to motivate those who need extra motivation.
1. Exercise improves the mood. Exercise stimulates various brain chemicals that can promote relaxation and happy feelings. Exercise can even reduce depression and anxiety.
2. Exercise fights chronic diseases. Exercise can help to prevent heart disease, osteoporosis, and blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol.
3. Exercise is an effective weight management tool. Diet and exercise are the repeated mantras of nearly every weight loss program. Exercise burns calories. According to the Mayo Clinic, activity accumulated during the day helps to burn calories.
4. Exercise strengthens the heart and lungs. Exercise delivers oxygen and nutrients to the tissues Regular exercise helps the entire cardiovascular system, circulating blood through the hear and blood vessels. When the heart and lungs work more efficiently energy is boosted.
5. Exercise promotes better sleep, essential to good health. Regular exercise may be the key to better sleep.
6. Exercise can spark up the sex life. Regular exercise increased energy and improves appearance, which can help lead toward a satisfying sex life.
7. Exercise can be fun Exercise is an activity that people can enjoy as a family, with friends or as a solo experience. Social exercises include dance classes, touch football and trail walking.
How Much Exercise is Needed
- The American Heart Association and the American College of Sports Medicine recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity at least five days a week. Moderate activity includes brisk walking or swimming.
- Those who prefer a more vigorous workout, such as running, can benefit ith 20 minutes of exercise three days a week plus strength training twice a week
- People who want to lose weight or reach specific fitness goals may need to increase activity over the minimum recommendations.
- Exercise is cumulative, so if 30 minutes at a time is not feasible, try 10 minute chunks of exercise three times a day.
These guidelines are for healthy adults under 65 years of age. It is important to consult a doctor before starting a new exercise program.
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