Regular physical activity - even at moderate levels - reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, and obesity. 65% of Americans are considered obese. So while the risks associated with not exercising are clear, we don't seem to be doing anything to change our sedentary ways.7 benefits of regular physical activity
1. Exercise improves your mood
Exercise stimulates various brain chemicals, which may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed than you were before you worked out. You'll also look better and feel better when you exercise regularly, which can boost your confidence and improve your self-esteem. Exercise even reduces feelings of depression and anxiety.
2. Exercise combats chronic diseases
Regular exercise can help you prevent heart disease ,type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and certain types of cancer.
3. Exercise helps you manage your weight
4. Exercise strengthens your heart and lungs.
5. Exercise promotes better sleep.
6. Exercise can put the spark back into your sex life.
7. Exercise can be — gasp — fun!
Exercise doesn't have to be drudgery. Take a ballroom dancing class. Check out a local climbing wall or hiking trail. Push your kids on the swings or climb with them on the jungle gym. Plan a neighborhood kickball or touch football game. Find an activity you enjoy, and go for it. If you get bored, try something new. If you're moving, it counts!
Exercise doesn't have to be drudgery. Take a ballroom dancing class. Check out a local climbing wall or hiking trail. Push your kids on the swings or climb with them on the jungle gym. Plan a neighborhood kickball or touch football game. Find an activity you enjoy, and go for it. If you get bored, try something new. If you're moving, it counts!
Try these suggestions to make exercise a tough habit to break, provided by the American Academy of Family Physicians:
1. Plan to exercise at a certain time every day, so it becomes part of your schedule.
2. Write up and sign a contract, where you agree to exercise.
3. Mark your calendar with a daily appointment for exercise.
4. Keep a diary of all of your exercises. Log everything you do, and your progress.
5. Have your doctor write out an exercise prescription, including how much exercise you should do and how often.
6.Try joining a health club or gym. Paying a membership fee may prompt you to get your money's worth and go more frequently.
1. Plan to exercise at a certain time every day, so it becomes part of your schedule.
2. Write up and sign a contract, where you agree to exercise.
3. Mark your calendar with a daily appointment for exercise.
4. Keep a diary of all of your exercises. Log everything you do, and your progress.
5. Have your doctor write out an exercise prescription, including how much exercise you should do and how often.
6.Try joining a health club or gym. Paying a membership fee may prompt you to get your money's worth and go more frequently.
Start reaping the benefits of physical activity today!
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