Adults should get at least 150 minutes of exercise every week to keep the body healthy, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends. Although these 150 minutes could be satisfied working out in a gym, there are truly many ways to get the aerobic activity recommended. They range from Pilates classes to running, cycling, swimming, hiking and any other exercise routine that you enjoy. By taking part in these activities, you afford yourself certain health advantages over those who are more sedentary.
Cardiovascular
One of the leading advantages you gain from exercise routines, like Pilates, is a cardiovascular workout. Cardiovascular exercises strengthen your heart. A stronger heart pumps blood more easily through your body, which reduces the stress on the heart itself, as well as reduces your blood pressure. A lower blood pressure reduces your risks for heart-related diseases.
Strength Training
Exercise routines also provide strength training to your muscles. When you strength train, you build up your muscles as well as develop stronger bones, states MayoClinic.com. Stronger muscles helps boost your metabolism, stamina and energy levels, while stronger bones help reduce your risks for diseases such as osteoporosis, Stronger bones also slow down the natural weakening effects aging has on your bones.
Flexibility
Many well-balanced exercise routines, such as Pilates and yoga, can also lengthen your muscles and increase your overall flexibility, notes the Cleveland Clinic. More flexibility means an increased range of motion at the joints and protects against muscle strains and injuries. Flexibility can also decrease muscle tension and tightness, and the associated pain that can come from tight muscles.
Weight Loss
Exercise routines also have a lasting impact on weight loss. When you exercise, your metabolism increases, as well as your body's need for energy increases. When you burn more calories through exercise than you consume through food, a calorie deficit occurs. This forces the body to turn to burning excess fat stored in your body as energy. These actions result in weight loss.
Disease Prevention
Taking part in regular exercise also reduces your risks for disease. Without exercise, your chances for becoming overweight or obese increase. With obesity comes weight-related diseases including diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and even some forms of cancer.
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