Along with a healthy diet and smoke-free lifestyle, regular exercise is critical for building and maintaining overall health. People who exercise regularly are significantly healthier than people who live sedentary lifestyles. MedlinePlus recommends that all adults get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. If you are interested in beginning a rigorous exercise program and have a medical condition, consult a healthcare provider or personal trainer for personalized safety guidelines.
Weight Management
Regular exercise can facilitate weight loss in people who are overweight or obese. Physical activity increases the number of calories that a person expends, causing the body to burn its fat reserves. Weight loss can, in turn, help prevent several obesity-related health concerns, including joint problems, fatigue, diabetes, high cholesterol and obstructive sleep apnea.
Heart Health
Physical activity can improve the health of your cardiovascular system, thereby reducing your risk of heart attack, stroke and sudden death. According to MayoClinic.com, regular physical activity can increase your high-density lipoprotein, or "good" cholesterol levels, while also lowering levels of triglycerides. Exercise also helps control blood pressure and prevent hypertension, a major risk factor for more serious forms of heart disease.
Mental Health
Regular exercise can significantly improve your response to stress and your overall mental health. Exercise may even help to prevent clinical depression. Furthermore, people who exercise regularly generally have a more positive outlook and better self-esteem. Exercise is also an excellent guilt-free alternative to unhealthy stress-coping mechanisms, such as smoking, drinking and overeating. Next time you have a bad day, head to the gym instead of the bar. You'll look and feel better because of your efforts.
More Energy
Although fatigue is a common reason to abstain from exercise, regular physical activity can help to prevent physical and emotional fatigue. Exercise improves the efficiency of your cardiovascular system, enabling blood to flow more freely to your brain and body. It also strengthens the muscles you need for everyday activities, such as shopping, working, cooking and cleaning. People who exercise regularly also sleep better at night and feel more refreshed upon awakening each morning. Although exercise may leave you feeling worn out at first, it will keep you feeling vibrant in your day-to-day life.
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