Physical activity is good for us, so we exercise- but do you really know why? Knowledge is power so we compiled a list of some of the top benefits of moving your body.
Mood Booster- Feel good hormones or Endorphins are a chemical naturally produced by the body, and it just so happens that exercise increases endorphins in the body. Endorphins also lower the risk of depression by 30%.
Weight Loss
Of course exercise has weight loss effects. Cardio, HIIT weight training, and walking are all types of exercises that can constitute weight loss. Weight loss is all about creating a calorie deficit and you can increase the calories you burn from running or walking just a mile a day.
Brain Health and Memory
Regular exercise can improve cognitive functions. Studies have shown that parts of the brain that controls thinking and memory have greater volume in those that exercise than those who don’t. In order to improve your mental capacity try an intense exercise for 120 minutes a week.
Reduce Risk of Chronic Disease
It is proven that lack of exercise is a major reason for chronic disease. Cardiac arrest and other heart diseases can easily be avoided if the heart is strengthened through exercise. Here are some stats associated with exercise: up to a 35% lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke & up to a 50% lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
Improve Quality of Life
Exercising can improve your quality of life by lowering the risk of diseases and sicknesses. Exercise makes your heart, lungs and various other organs stronger, therefore helping you live longer.
Increase Energy Levels
It might seem counterintuitive that exercise increases energy and fights fatigue, but it truly does.
Good for Muscle and Bone Health
As you age your bones and muscle go through changes that may cause them to be weaker than in your youth. Regular exercise increases bone density and strengthens your muscles. adults).
Improve Sleep Quality
There is solid evidence that exercise can improve sleep quality. Endorphins, yes this chemical again. Endorphins regulate your sleep schedule, it also helps you stay alert, as stated earlier exercise encourages a release of endorphins throughout the body.
These are just a few of the benefits of moving your body on a daily basis. Physical activity doesn’t always have to be extreme and intense and leave you dying-regretting your life choices. Unless that's what you want. Small but intentional choices such as choosing to take the stairs, walking to work or making yourself get up extra early to do some yoga. The point is to get blood flowing and pumping through your body, delivering oxygenated and nutrient rich blood throughout.
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