The Lifelong Benefits of Exercise

Stop procrastinating and start exercising! The benefits of physical activity are too great to ignore.

Did you know that people with high levels of physical fitness are at lower risk of dying from a variety of causes? So when your hear feel younger, live longer it's not just a slogan, it means there are actual benefits of regular exercise.





What the Benefits of Exercise Mean for You
Recent research shows great news! Exercise enhances sleep, prevents weight gain, and reduces the risk of high blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and even depression.
Even if you are currently living with a health condition like heart disease and even cancer there are benefits of moderate exercise. Such benefits include strength, mental well-being, and improvement in physical activity. Incorporating moderate exercise will help relived symptoms, improve quality of life, reduce medications and even hospital stays. Exercise is not just important for those living with health condition, but those wanting to prevent future health conditions!

The Basics to Exercise
Physical activity doesn't have to be strenuous to produce results. Even moderate exercise five to six times a week can lead to lasting health benefits.
When incorporating more physical activity into your life, remember three simple guidelines:
1. Exercise at moderate intensity for at least 30 minutes 5 times per week.
2. Avoid periods of inactivity; some exercise at any level of intensity is better than none.
3. At least twice a week, incorporate weight-bearing activities that strengthen all major muscle groups.

Make Exercise a Habit
The number one reason most people say they don't exercise is lack of time. If you find it difficult to fit extended periods of exercise into your schedule, keep in mind that short bouts of physical activity even just for 20 will help you achieve some health benefits. If you can incorporate small periods of exercise every day you are helping to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Set realistic goals and take small steps to fit more movement into your daily life, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator and skip of going out for lunch 3 times a week. On the days you pack a lunch follow it up with a 20-30 min walk. You will feel energized and prepared for the remainder of the afternoon. The key is to start incorporating exercise into your daily routine and be prepared. This means have an extra pair of your shoes and music ready so you don't have any excuses.

To help you stick with your new exercise plan, vary your routine, like swimming or riding a bike one day and walking the next. Get out and enjoy nature on a hike or simply just a walk. Even if the weather doesn't cooperate, have a back up plan such a using an exercise bike in your home, follow an exercise DVD, scope out exercise equipment at a nearby community center, or consider joining a fitness club. The trick is to get to the point where you look at exercise like brushing your teeth and getting enough sleep.

Remember that physical fitness is attainable. Even with small changes, you can reap big rewards that will pay off for years to come.