With the advent of desk jobs, television, computers, mobile devices, and many more, individuals are more sedentary than ever. Studies show that in America alone, there are about six out of ten adults with inactive or under-active lifestyles. This is probably the reason why there is a growing number of overweight and obese individuals. These individuals might be prone to health risks like heart diseases, high blood pressure, certain cancers, and diabetes. Any significant weight loss may improve one’s health and may prevent the occurrence of these ailments.
Exercise and nutritious diets are safe and effective ways to lose weight and improve overall health. In addition to weight-loss, the activity itself can bring beneficial effects on cholesterol levels even without accompanying weight-loss. According to a study conducted by Duke University Medical Center, the participants did the caloric equivalent of brisk walking or jogging for 12 to 20 miles a week, doing them either in moderation or vigorously. The study suggested that in terms of cholesterol levels, the amount of exercise, and not the intensity of exercise made significant health benefits. A healthier heart can be achieved through exercising because this activity is vital to the overall health of the blood vessels and the heart. With regular exercise, the heart will be able to pump sufficient blood and deliver additional oxygen with increased efficiency. Individuals who are not losing weight despite being active daily should not be discouraged because exercising itself can be beneficial. Even if people don’t lose weight, physical activities may help them live longer.
If you do not exercise regularly, hopefully, this article will be able to convince you to get started. First and foremost, exercise is crucial to your health.
Table of Contents
Exercise increases insulin sensitivity
This means that the pancreas doesn’t have to work as hard every time we eat. Less load on the pancreas means it’s less likely to pack it in. Increased insulin sensitivity means the body can more effectively control blood sugar levels, which helps in the prevention and management of diabetes and obesity.
Exercise has excellent effects on the musculoskeletal system
Exercise can increase muscle mass, decrease body fat, increase bone density. It can strengthen tendons and ligaments. Bone density is essential for preventing osteoporosis. It is also great for maintaining strength and balance in the elderly population. If you don’t exercise as you age, your bone density decreases, and you can lose your strength and stability. This makes you a prime candidate for a fall, which is terrible news, especially if your bones aren’t as strong as they used to be. But exercise is not just for the elderly. From a musculoskeletal point of view, it is excellent for any age group, improving body composition, enhancing movement efficiency, and avoiding things like back pain, knee, and ankle problems.
Exercise improves mental functions
Physical activity or exercise may enhance not only one’s physical well-being but also their mental state. It can help your mental capacity, relieve stress, increases your confidence & self-esteem. It will also improve your appearance and helps maintain a healthy weight. You will live longer, keep yourself free of disease, and have a better quality of life. Many medical studies point out that exercise, especially aerobic exercise (jogging, brisk walking, and jumping rope) as one of the best treatments for stress and anxiety. This is possible because of the production of endogenous morphine or endorphins. These are substances that are produced by the brain that might work as the body’s natural pain-killers. It is said that endorphins might be capable of elevating one’s mood, self-esteem, and mental functioning. Partaking in moderate or vigorous physical activities may promote the production of endorphins. A good walk is great to clear your head. It can help with depression and it can be a great stress reliever.
Exercise in cancer patients
Exercise has also been linked with better outcomes in cancer patients. Multiple studies have shown that exercise improves cancer-related fatigue.
Exercise for wellbeing.
Exercise is a large part of achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Diet is a major part of a healthy lifestyle and in the prevention of disease but you cannot forget the importance of exercise. A healthy weight not only looks great but can help avoid cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and wear and tear on the joints.
Exercise should be done correctly and in moderation to achieve health improvements. Individuals who want to improve their health don’t have to train like marathoners or even join a gym. Strength training (push-ups, pull-ups, etc) coupled with 30 minutes of jogging or brisk walking can keep your body toned and improve metabolism. These regimens can be done with little or no equipment at all. Many health experts claim that the key to improved health is not intensity or using sophisticated equipment but continuous physical activity. Exercising properly can make people feel better, have more energy, and become less prone to stress.
Why wouldn’t you want to start exercising regularly? Do it today!
Reference:
