Exercise has a myriad of profound, scientifically proven physical and mental benefits. The stats correspond to the frequency, so if you exercise regularly or get some kind of physical activity every day, you're more likely to feel better, look better and be healthier. Whether your goal is weight loss, happiness or more energy, daily exercise can help you get there.
Happiness
Regular exercise may be one of the keys to happiness. According to MayoClinic.com, working out stimulates brain chemicals that induce relaxation and happiness. The Center for Science in the Public Interest adds that the same chemicals may even relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Energy
Working out does take energy, but it also creates more energy by delivering stores of oxygen and essential nutrients to your tissues. Those supplies can help you stay more active and complete the tasks you really want to do.
Endurance and Strength
If you want to gain the endurance and strength necessary to keep up with a playground full of kids or successfully move boxes from one apartment to another, there's no better way to do it than by enhancing your fitness level with daily exercise.
Less Disease
Ward off disease by working out. Regular exercise cuts the risks of heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and other chronic health conditions.
Appearance
Not happy with the way you look? Exercise can improve your appearance to a certain degree. For example, regular strength training can help you develop a slim, toned and sculpted physique.
Sleep
People who struggle from sleep ailments or often feel tired may find some relief in daily exercise, since physical activity deepens sleep and helps you relax enough to fall asleep in the first place.
Longer Life
It may not be the fountain of youth, but exercise is scientifically proven to help you live longer. According to a National Cancer Institute study published in the December 2007 issue of the "Archives of Internal Medicine," people who follow physical activity guidelines for regular exercise have a lower risk of premature death.
Weight Loss
No matter what type of exercise you choose to do, you'll burn calories and improve your chances of losing weight and keeping it off. According to MayoClinic.com, even an hour of brisk walking burns almost 300 calories for a 160-lb. person.
Stress Relief
Wind down with a workout. The chemicals that physical activity releases in the brain can help you relax and de-stress. It's also healthful to manage the pressure you feel by blowing off steam through exercise.
Recreation
Exercise can be a fun form of recreation. Even if you're not athletic, a game of pickup soccer with family members, a bowling birthday party or a session of laughter yoga with friends can put a smile on your face and make you feel better about the world in general.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Exercise -- 7 Benefits of Regular Physical Activity; July 2009
- Center for Science in the Public Interest; A Dozen Other Reasons to Exercise; January/February 2000
- K-State.edu: Top Ten Reasons to Exercise and Be Physically Active
- "Archives of Internal Medicine": Physical Activity Recommendations and Decreased Risk of Mortality; MF Leitzmann; 2007
- MayoClinic.com: Exercise for Weight Loss -- Calories Burned in 1 Hour; December 2009
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