5 Benefits of Physical Activity and Exercise
There are many benefits of physical activity. Exercise leads to a healthy body. We all know that, right? Unfortunately it’s woefully lacking in today’s modern society.
Today’s modern world and lifestyle requires little exertion and physical activity compared to just a few generations ago! When you think about the amount of physical labor that was required by our ancestors compared to today, it really is quite remarkable.
We are living in a very cushy, easy world where we can get all that we need without hardly any physical effort. We need to exercise and compensate for that.
If you are truly preparedness-minded beyond Level 1 or 2, then you really need to prepare your body too.
Here are five of the many benefits of physical activity and exercise:
Physical Activity and Exercise Controls Weight
Exercise can help prevent excess weight gain or help with weight loss (coupled with diet). When you engage in physical activity, you burn calories! It’s simple math. The more intense the activity, the more calories you burn.
You don’t need to set aside large chunks of exercise time to reap weight-loss benefits. If you can’t do an actual workout, simply get more active throughout the day.
– Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
– Rev up your household chores.
– Park near the back of the parking lot and walk.
– Take a 15 minute walk during your lunch break.
– Don’t sit all day – regularly get up and walk around.
Exercise Combats Health Conditions and Diseases
Worried about heart disease? Hoping to prevent high blood pressure? No matter what your current weight, being active boosts high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good,” cholesterol and decreases unhealthy triglycerides.
This one-two punch keeps your blood flowing smoothly, which decreases your risk of cardiovascular diseases.
In fact, regular physical activity can help you prevent or manage a wide range of health problems and concerns, including stroke, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, depression, certain types of cancer, arthritis and falls.
-mayoclinic.com
Physical Activity and Exercise Improves Mood
Exercise provides an emotional lift! A workout or a brisk 30-minute walk will help! Mrs. J and I walk 2 miles after coffee time. It really lifts my mood. And it’s a great way to start the day.
We also have a Bowflex machine, and various weights, and a treadmill (for bad weather walking). I can tell you that my mood and mental accuity is stimulated after any of these exercises.
Physical activity stimulates chemicals in the brain that may leave you feeling happier and more relaxed.
Many say that they can ‘think’ better or more clearly after exercise. You may also feel better about yourself when you exercise regularly, which can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
Exercise Boosts Energy
Do you get winded easily? Regular physical activity can improve your muscle strength and boost your endurance over time.
Physical activity delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and help your cardiovascular system work more efficiently. And when your heart and lungs work more efficiently, you have more energy.
Exercise Promotes Better Sleep
Struggling to fall asleep? Or to stay asleep?
Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and deepen your sleep.
Just don’t do it too close to bedtime, or you may be too energized to fall asleep!
What are some of your favorite ways to exercise?
[ Read:
Walking: Survival Fitness and Exercise
How To Lose Weight Fast With This One Tip