The Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Exercise
Can exercise change your life? It seems crazy, but it’s true—one of the most effective ways to improve your health is with regular exercise.
Our bodies need exercise and a healthy diet to function at their best. The good news is that all exercise is equal when it comes to your health—whether you want to run, jump, hike, or swim, your body is sure to be happier once it gets more exercise.
Are you wondering exactly what the physical and mental health benefits of exercise are? There are more than you think—keep reading to find a few of the ways exercise can improve your overall health.
A Regular Exercise Routine Boosts Your Happiness Levels
Can having an exercise routine make you happier? It sounds too good to be true—but it is!
Whenever we exercise, our bodies naturally release a chemical called endorphins. Endorphins give us a positive, happy feeling—this is one reason why runners often talk of the ‘runner’s high’—the fantastic feeling you experience after a long run.
For this reason, exercise can also help those who are experiencing symptoms of depression. If you’re having a bad day, you might find that getting out the door and moving can help boost your spirits.
Reduce Stress
If you have a stressful life, you’re not alone. With hectic work schedules, a constant barrage of emails, and family commitments, it’s harder than ever to find time for yourself and to relax.
One of the biggest benefits of physical activity is that it can reduce stress. Enjoying an exercise you love, such as swimming or cycling, is an amazing way to clear your mind, get some fresh air, and take a break from the things that are causing you stress.
It’s also a good break from your technology, so leave your phone in the office and give your mind and eyes a breather from constant screen time.
A bonus is that regular exercise also helps to improve your sleep. If you’re someone who tends to lay awake at night, tossing and turning over the events of the day, then you might feel more well-rested and refreshed by adding more exercise to your day.
Improve Your Cardiovascular Health
When it comes to your physical health, it’s simple—working out is good for your heart. Heart disease and cardiovascular are major health concerns as we age, so exercise, paired with a healthy diet, can make a big difference.
Vigorous exercise pumps blood and oxygen throughout the body, which helps our heart stay healthy and strong. Cardio-based exercises, like running, aerobics, cycling, and swimming, are great ways to help your heart!
However, if you’re new to exercising, you might find yourself occasionally feeling lightheaded, especially in a hot and sweaty gym. In that case, these dizziness remedies can help.
Build Muscle
As we age, we gradually lose muscle mass. One of the best ways to look after your body as you age is to incorporate strength training into your life.
Lifting weights or doing resistance-based exercises, like pull-ups, are both fantastic ways to build muscle. Note that if you’re planning to gain muscle, you’ll get best results if you add more protein to your diet.
Increased muscle can make you stronger, help prevent falls, and gives you more energy and power to get through each day.
It can also be a good idea to work with a trainer at your local gym, as it’s safer to learn the proper way to lift. That way, you’ll improve your fitness without potentially injuring yourself.
Feel More Energetic
Do you ever feel tired and sluggish? It might seem counterproductive, but the more you exercise, the more energy you’ll have.
Exercise is known to provide an energy boost, even if you suffer from health conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome. If you have more serious health issues, always talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
Assist With Weight Loss
If you’re looking to drop a few pounds, it’s time to think about exercise. Exercise burns calories and can temporarily increase your metabolism, helping you drop weight.
However, it’s been said that you can’t out-train a bad diet, so try to improve your nutrition and eating habits too, as exercise isn’t always enough when you’re trying to lose weight.
Any type of exercise can help with weight loss, as long as you stick with it. Find an exercise you enjoy and are glad to do a few days per week, helping to develop a new healthier lifestyle.
Improve Your Skin
You might be surprised to learn that exercise can help improve your skin. Exercise can help your body produce antioxidants, which can help to repair your skin.
Diet plays a big role in your skin as well, so if you suffer from acne or patchy skin, eating healthier and staying hydrated can be a big help.
Start Enjoying These Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Exercise Today
Ready to kickstart your year with a healthier version of yourself? To start enjoying these physical and mental health benefits of exercise, get started today.
Come up with a new exercise routine that you’re willing to stick with, giving yourself at least a few hours per week for fitness. Many people find that exercising at the same time per day can be helpful, so that you can include it in your schedule.
Grab your sneakers, pop on your gym clothes, and get ready to change your life!
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