Benefits of Exercise
Posted: Feb 27, 2024 | Written By: Boluwatife Koiki (RN)
You probably must have heard it for years — the health benefits of exercise can’t be denied or overemphasized.
The Department of Health and Human Services recommends adults physical exercise to get optimum health results.
Other than the beauty you get and the strength, the list of the benefits of regular exercise is quite long. Some of these benefits may even surprise you.
If you’re looking for a reason to keep up your workout routine, this list should serve as a motivation:
- Exercise Delay Signs of Aging: regular moderate exercise is known to increase natural antioxidants to protect your body’s cells. Exercise also promotes blood flow which can give you a post-workout glow as well as delay the appearance of aging skin like wrinkles.
- Reduces Cardiovascular Disease significantly: When conditions like heart disease run in a family, it’s essential to be continuously mindful of ways to stay heart healthy. Exercise and diet are the top two ways to keep your heart health in check, especially if you have a family history of heart conditions. One study found that those who do the most physical activity can lower their cardiovascular risk by 60 percent.
- Reduces/Burn Calories: the benefit of this exercise is clear; consistent weight training will help you burn more calories even during a restful state. The more calories burned during a workout, the more you burn after the workout as well!
- Minimizes Bodily Inflammation: If you struggle with inflammatory diseases — like arthritis. Exercise can help you lubricate your joints and feel better overall. Regular exercise is proven to reduce chronic inflammation, according to research.
- Safely Reduces Blood Pressure: High blood pressure increases the risk of stroke or heart attack and exercise is a recommended management technique for those with the condition.
- Decreases PMS(Premenstrual Syndrome): For women who suffer from extreme irritation or bloating before their menstrual cycles, surprisingly, exercise can minimize both conditions.
- Helps With Emotional Processing: If you’ve been neglecting your self care, it’s time to invest in yourself. During stressful times, exercise can be an excellent form of self-care, especially when you’re in high-pressure environments. Heading out for a walk in nature, for example, is a great way to exercise and also allows space away from life obligations to simply process emotions.
- Gives You More Energy: Consistent exercise is shown to reduce fatigue and improve energy levels overall. Even low-intensity exercise like walking has been shown to reduce fatigue.
- Improves Learning: Consistent exercise improves concentration and attention as well.
- Exercise Benefits the Body Within Weeks: As you exercise regularly, you gain more fitness benefits. Experts say within six to eight weeks you’ll notice health benefits — like it’s easier to climb that flight of stairs than before.
