If you’re looking to feel better, both physically and mentally, add some exercise to your daily routine! There are so many benefits to doing physical activities, and anyone can reap these benefits, no matter their age, sex, or physical ability. If you’re not quite convinced, keep reading to learn about ten great benefits of exercise.
Working out might make you happier
Studies have shown that exercise can make people feel better and even reduce some symptoms of depression – whether it be walking, cycling, going to the gym, or joining a karate class! Physical activity triggers the release of dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and endorphins in the brain. These chemicals can lighten your mood, reduce pain, and relieve stress.
It doesn’t seem to matter how intense the workout it. Whatever the level of intensity your exercise is, your mood can benefit from it.
Physical activity is great for your brain
Like we said above, exercise is linked to lower levels of depression, but did you know that it is also connected to quicker learning and better memory? Studies have shown that, as of right now, the best way to prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease is actually exercise.
Scientists don’t quite know why exercise changes the function and structure of the brain, but it is something that is being actively researched. Researchers have found that exercise does improve blood flow to the brain, which feeds the growth of new brain cells and blood vessels.
Exercise can lower your blood pressure
Exercise can slow down your heart rate and lower blood pressure when at rest and when exercising. One of the most significant risk factors for heart disease is high blood pressure, so working out can help you keep a healthy heart.
You can strengthen your muscles
A combination of aerobic workouts and strength training is fantastic for heart health. These types of exercises can improve the muscles’ ability to get oxygen from circulating blood, which reduces the need for the heart to work harder to pump more blood to the muscles.
Exercise can reduce inflammation
Routine exercise can help reduce chronic inflammation as your body adapts to the challenge exercise presents on many of the bodily systems. Physical activity is important in reducing the adverse effects of many diseases.
Physical activity controls weight
Exercise is a great way to prevent excess weight gain, and it can help you maintain weight loss. When you do any sort of physical activity, you’re burning calories. The more intense the activity is, the more calories you are going to burn.
Regular workouts are excellent for controlling your weight but don’t worry if you can’t make it to the gym or class every day. Any kind of physical activity is better than none whatsoever, so make small efforts to be more active throughout the day. You can park further away from a store’s entrance, take the stairs instead of the elevator, and even do some extra things around the house. Just remember to stay consistent!
Working out promotes better sleep
If you’re struggling to fall asleep at night, or stay asleep, regular exercise can help! Exercising can help you fall asleep faster, deepen your sleep, and get better sleep overall. You won’t want to exercise too close to bedtime, though, or you might end up energized to go to sleep!
Boost your energy
If you get winded going up stairs or doing household chores, regular physical activity can help. Exercising can increase your endurance and improve your muscle strength.
When you exercise, oxygen and nutrients are being delivered to your tissues, helping your cardiovascular system work more efficiently. When your heart and lungs improve, you’ll have more energy to take on those daily chores.
Get in a better mood
If you want to blow off some steam after a hard day at work or you need an emotional lift, exercising can help. Like we said before, physical activity stimulates chemicals in your brain that make you happier, less anxious, and more relaxed.
You may also end up feeling better about your appearance when you exercise regularly, which can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
Working out can be fun and social
Exercise doesn’t have to be a monotonous chore; it can be a great way to get out of the house and make friends. Working out can offer you a chance to unwind, enjoy the outdoors, or engage in something that makes you happy. You can also connect with friends and family in a fun and social setting.
Whether you take a dance class, a karate class, hit the gym, go to the pool, or cycle around the neighborhood, find something you enjoy and get out there! If you’re bored, try something new or invite your friends or family to come along with you.
Bottom line
Exercise is a fantastic way to improve your health, feel better, and have a great time! If you’re new to working out, check out this blog for some tips on starting a routine you’ll actually stick to. And if you’re looking for a new and fun way to workout, give karate a try! Check out this article for the benefits of martial arts.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recommends that most healthy adults should:
- Do a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercises per week OR 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercises per week OR a combination of both moderate and vigorous activity. Some examples of aerobic exercises include: walking, running, and swimming.
- Do strength training activities for all major muscle groups 2x per week. Some examples of strength training exercises include: using weight machines, doing bodyweight training, or lifting free weights.
You’ll want to spread your exercises throughout the week. If you want to lose some weight or meet specific fitness goals, you may need to ramp up your physical activities. But remember, check in with your doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if you haven’t exercised in a long time or have concerns about your health and fitness.
We hope this article has been helpful and wish you the best on your health and fitness journey!
