7 Physical and Mental Benefits of Regular Exercise

Exercising not only benefits your physical well-being, but it can also benefit your mind as well. Exercising can increase energy levels, promote better sleep quality and help manage stress better.

Exercise has a tremendous effect on both health and mood, yet getting up from the couch can feel like an uphill battle. That’s why it’s essential to plan out workouts in a way that will be sustainable in the long run.

1. Physical Benefits: A Healthier Heart and Stronger Lungs

If you’re not physically active, you put yourself at risk for serious health conditions. Inactivity can lead to obesity, high cholesterol, inflammation that contributes to heart disease and stroke risk factors.

Strengthened hearts and lungs mean more oxygen is being pumped throughout your body, which may protect you from cardiovascular diseases.

2. Strengthens Bones and Muscles

As you age, it is beneficial to incorporate bone-building activities into your routine. Even simple things like walking quickly can build up your bones and increase their density over time.

3. Enhances Cognitive Function and Memory

Exercising regularly not only promotes better mental clarity, it may even protect against dementia and Alzheimer’s. Plus, regular physical activity may help protect against memory loss as you age.

4. It Can Reduce Pain

Exercise has been known to provide a steady release of endorphins, especially for those suffering from chronic discomfort. People with fibromyalgia may find that exercising helps alleviate some of their discomfort associated with this disorder.

5. It Can Give You More Energy

Exercise provides your muscles with oxygen and nutrients, giving you more energy to do the things you enjoy. Exercising also helps combat fatigue – a common issue for many people.

6. Exercise Can Be an Excellent Stress Buster

For those suffering from anxiety or depression, exercising can be a great stress-buster. Exercising stimulates various chemicals in the brain which reduce anxiety levels, lower stress levels and boost self-worth by making you feel better about yourself.

7. Exercise Can Aid Weight Loss

Exercising regularly and according to a fitness program tailored to your needs will increase the likelihood of reaching your weight loss objectives. A fitness regimen tailored specifically for you is an effective tool in reaching those objectives.

8. It Can Lower Your Blood Pressure

A nutritious diet and regular water consumption are important for heart health, but they cannot replace moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Therefore, it’s recommended that you include at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise five days a week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two other days.

9. Exercise Can Keep You Fit for Life

Exercising not only benefits your overall health, but it is also a major factor in longevity. A fitter body is healthier and therefore you are living longer with increased mobility as you age. With exercise on board, fitness becomes even more of an asset!