Main health benefits of regular exercise
As a nation we are getting fatter and this trend brings with it a host of health related problems. One way to counteract this worrying trend is to start exercising regularly. You should try to get at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise 4 times a week, this is physical activity that makes you sweat and your heart beat faster, such as running, swimming, and bicycling. If you combine it with a well-balanced diet that is low in saturated fat and salt, then you really are living a healthy lifestyle.
Main health benefits of regular exercise
Let’s take a look at the many health benefits that can be derived from regular exercise:
1. Good news for your heart
Your heart is like any other muscle in your body and needs a good workout on a regular basis. Practicing physical exercise on a regular basis will help strengthen your heart and keep it healthy, reducing the risk of developing heart disease. Have you also noticed your breathing and how difficult it is for you to climb hills and stairs, when you lead a sedentary lifestyle? Exercise develops your cardiovascular system and increases lung capacity, making you feel much fitter.
2. Exercise burns calories
Lack of regular exercise is one of the main factors behind rising levels of obesity, along with a poor diet high in saturated fat. Exercise is a great way to burn calories and lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Exercise will boost your metabolism so your body will burn calories faster, even for hours after your workout is over. Regular physical exercise will also reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
3. Exercise helps you sleep
When it comes to the vital things your body needs, sleep is right up there with food, water, and oxygen. Exercise can improve sleep quality, but try to avoid strenuous exercise in the last 3 to 4 hours before bedtime, as this can affect your sleep.
4. Exercise makes you feel great.
When you exercise, your body releases feel-good hormones called endorphins that make you feel good. This is the good feeling you get when you finish a session, the hard part of the exercise is getting started. Regular exercise is a great way to deal with all the stress that comes with life.
5. Exercise can give your life purpose.
Exercising can also be a great hobby that can greatly enrich your life. Your love of running can lead to marathons and fun runs, where you have the opportunity to raise money for charity. The same can happen with cycling or swimming, you could end up joining a club and competing at a high level while staying fit and healthy at the same time.
So now is the time to get moving, get active, and start experiencing the major health benefits of regular exercise.