It seems as if every time we go to the doctor’s to get a checkup, we here the same thing: you should probably get more exercise. Your doctor will probably start listing off some of the well-known benefits to increased exercise, like maintaining a healthy weight, but there are several other awesome reasons to make sure you hit the gym on a regular basis. So if you are looking for added inspiration to jumpstart your workout routine, check out some of the added benefits below:
Exercise Improves Mood
For years, psychologists have been utilizing regular exercise in conjunction with other treatments to help mitigate the effects of depression. The reasoning behind that is due to the fact that even a relatively short amount of exercise can have a profound effect on our mood. During exercise, our bodies release chemicals like endorphins and neurotransmitters. These chemicals help ease feelings of stress and anxiety in a more efficient manner. Also, exercise provides a healthier outlet for dealing with the stresses of everyday life. Those who exercise regularly are less likely to turn towards drugs and alcohol to cope, which can exacerbate feelings of depression.
Increased Support for Spine & Joints
It goes without saying that in order to get stronger muscles, you have to engage them on a regular basis. Our bodies’ muscular system is an incredible piece of equipment we have at our disposal and if used and maintained correctly, can be a source of great benefit for us. Our muscles act as a support system for our joints and bones, helping bare the burden of pressure and force. This is especially true for the weight bearing joints in our body, like knees, hips and spine. In fact, research has shown that people who experience regular, extended periods of inactivity saw the muscles in their lower back essentially waste away, making the spine increasing unstable.
Reduce Your Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
According the Center for Disease Control (CDC), stroke and heart disease are two of the leading causes of death in the United States. The primary culprit? Yep, you guessed it; it’s a sedentary lifestyle. The CDC suggests that at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise every week (which breaks down to just about 20 minutes a day) can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels in your body, significantly decreasing your chances of developing these ailments later in life.
Improve Quality of Sleep
Getting a good nights rest is one of the cornerstones of optimal health. Unfortunately, many aspects to our regular life can keep us from getting the recommended 8 hours of sleep a night, like work, stress, and or course an inactive lifestyle. Recently, the National Sleep Foundation conducted a study that looked at more than 2,600 men and women between the ages of 18 and 85. The study showed that 65% of that group saw improvements in sleep quality when getting 150 minutes of exercise a week. The same people also reported that they experienced less sleepiness throughout the day.
