Move More, Live More
The Surprising Health Benefits of Physical Activity
Did you start exercising daily?
Remember, it is never too late to start reaping the many health benefits that regular exercise has to offer. It is about starting with small, achievable goals and building up from there!
Did you know that the benefits of being physically active go beyond the amazing changes you will see in the mirror? Most people begin exercising or increasing physical activity because they are looking for physical changes. This may be to increase or decrease weight. Let’s take a moment to look at the other wonderful changes and amazing health benefits.
You will start feeling stronger because you are! The muscles, joints, and bones are being strengthened with the increase in your activity. As this is happening, you should notice that you are simultaneously improving your balance and therefore reducing the chance of falling or becoming injured.
By exercising, you are helping your heart and lungs work more efficiently. The more efficient your body is, the more energy you have.
Ever hear the saying “play hard, sleep hard”?
Well, this holds true with activity and sleep. Doctors have not pinpointed the exact reason behind this fact, but research has shown that people who are physically active do sleep better. For example, doing resistance exercises at least 3 times a week will give you a better quality of sleep.
If you do regular aerobic exercises, you should notice that you will fall asleep faster, deeper, and feel more rested when waking up. Studies have shown that completing just one single workout improves sleep.
More Brain Power
How about “added brainpower”? Being physically active may positively affect the way you think and learn. Additionally, physical activity or exercise has been shown to improve mood by decreasing feeling anxious or sad. Not to mention the benefit of reducing stress and “blowing off some steam” during your activity!
Healthier heart and body
Activity plays an important part in managing your health conditions and reducing your risks for other illnesses.
- When you reduce weight and improve endurance you are having a positive effect on your heart. This means you are reducing risks and improving conditions like high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart disease (cardiovascular disease).
- The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) estimates that there are 130 million adults living with diabetes or pre-diabetes in the United States. Physical Activity and weight management are key components to reducing the risk and improving Type II Diabetes.
- Additionally, being physically active reduces risks for other health conditions like metabolic syndrome, arthritis, stroke, osteoporosis, and some cancers.
The emotional benefits of exercise
By being physically active you manage your health and increase the possibility that you will live longer!
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