Many are aware the obvious satisfaction of looking in the mirror and seeing the rewards of a healthy diet and consistent exercise program. While for some a lean body is reason enough to keep at it, there are a number of less obvious benefits to working out that leave you feeling equally as accomplished.
Positive Mood and Self-Esteem
A trimmer figure would make anyone feel better about themselves. Whether it's an endorphin rush or the feeling of a job well done; regular exercisers have an even greater confidence boost after a vigorous workout when compared to non-exercisers. However, couch potatoes needn't be discouraged; a study published by Idea Fitness Journal notes that after as little as 10 minutes, participants began to feel a boost in mood. While that's a great start, the greatest results were seen after longer durations of aerobic activity.
Increased Energy
Exercise increases circulation and cardiovascular performance. When the body is working more efficiently, the result is more energy. By increasing one's activity level, the body releases more energy-promoting and mood-enhancing neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. Moderate physical activity can give participants as much as a 20 percent increase in energy levels and help reduce fatigue in even otherwise sedentary individuals.
Improved Learning
Working out may make you smarter. Doing so increases the level of brain chemicals called growth factors that help make new brain cells and establish new connections between brain cells to help us learn. The more challenging the activity, the harder your brain works to grasp it, in turn enhancing attention and concentration skills. Remember, your brain is a muscle and benefits from a good workout just like the rest of your body.
Live Longer
The most obvious reason of all is a longer life. Working out even a few times a week can increase longevity by up to 40 percent. Doctors recommend exercise to prevent numerous chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and lower cholesterol.
References
- "Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation"; Exercisers Achieve Greater Acute Exercise-induced Mood Enhancement Than Nonexercisers; Dr. Hoffman, et al.; February 2008
- "Idea Fitness Journal"; The Psychology of Exercise; Jim Gavin PhD., et al.; February 2006
- Mayo Clinic: Exercise: 7 Benefits of Regular Physical Activity
- "The New York Times Health Blog"; The Cure for Exhaustion? More Exercise; Tara Parker-Pope; February 2008
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: The Benefits of Physical Activity
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