If you’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it thousands of times: exercise is important. But why? Why do so many people swear by something that can be such a pain to do? The fact of the matter is that the benefits of exercise go far beyond what you might expect.
Control Your Weight
Weight is going to look different for different body types. Regardless of BMI, there is going to be a healthy weight and unhealthy weight. The best way to make sure that you build muscle and slim down on excess body fat is by daily movement. If serious cardio – running, swimming, sports, and similar activities – seem like they would be too much for you, start with walking. Even just walking can get you outside and get your blood pumping. Odds are that if you’re not used to cardio in the first place, even just walking will boost your heart rate and start burning calories.
Improve Your Mental Health
This is probably the best part about exercise. Yes, you can burn fat and get in shape. But not only will you look better, but you will also feel better. There will come a point when you have adjusted to exercise and actually enjoy it! Both aerobic and anaerobic exercise can produce endorphins in the brain, making you feel happy and energized. Your body will be going through physical cycles that, in turn, will stimulate your brain. Staying physically active can help you relieve stress. You might even reach that “runner’s high” that some people talk about – where the mental stimulation of a run can be euphoric. Remember to seek balance. Pushing yourself towards the extreme is not pleasant, but make sure that your body is sufficiently challenged and sweating.
Fortify Yourself Against Disease
Obesity and heart disease are the leading causes of death for adults in the United States. Unfortunately, a lot of modern technology (phones, video games, social media) can engender a lifelong kind of dependence on a sedentary lifestyle where health problems flourish. Many elderly people are hit with the effects of decades of bad habits right when their health is becoming fragile. Don’t be caught in that kind of situation! Instead, start now while you can. With consistency, you will see yourself transform in as little as six months, let alone years and years of healthy living.
Your exercise is yours to do with as you please. The options are endless – martial arts, swimming, dance, running, and weightlifting are only scratching the surface of what you have available. Once you find something you love, you will have a healthy activity for the rest of your life.
Check out this article on other ways to handle mental health issues besides medication!
