Top 5 Benefits of Exercise

November 11 2013

Top 5 Benefits of Exercise

Let’s face it, exercise is something that most people place on the back burner. When you’re busy working a nine-to-five job, getting your kids to and from school, maintaining a home, and performing a countless other daily activities, it’s hard to find time for physical fitness. If this sounds like a familiar scenario, you should take note of what I’m about to tell you.

Benefit #1) Reduces Chance of Heart Disease

According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., taking the lives of nearly 600,000 people each year. While eating healthy, nutritious foods is one step towards reducing your chance of heart disease, exercise is equally important. Exercising on a regular basis will strengthen your heart while burning fat deposits that may contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Benefit #2) Fights Depression

You might be surprised to learn that exercise actually fights depression. There’s something known as a “runner’s high” that occurs after a good jog or run. Whenever you exercise (cardio workouts, especially), the body produces chemicals known as endorphins which create the sense of pleasure and happiness. So the next time you are feeling a case of the Monday Blues, tie up your sneakers and go for a run.

Benefit #3) Controls Weight

Can’t seem to lose weight no matter how many calories you cut out of your daily diet? Rather than starving yourself (which is never recommended), try to incorporate more exercise into your lifestyle. Whether it’s strength training, cardio, or a combination of the two, exercise will help regulate a healthy weight in your body.

Benefit #4) Sleep More Soundly At Night

Of course, exercising also encourages better sleeping. Insomnia is an all-too-common problem that affects millions of Americans. If you find yourself staring at the alarm clock for hours on end while trying to fall asleep, exercise might be the solution to your problem. By physically draining the energy out of your body, your mind will instinctively send the message that it needs sleep. You’ll fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly throughout the night by exercising.

Benefit #5) Self-Confidence

A fifth benefit of exercise is the boost it provides to your self-confidence. Once you get into a solid workout routine, your will feel better about your body and image. This high level of self-confidence translates into a more outgoing personality and better overall quality of life.