About the Importance of Being in Shape

About the Importance of Being in Shape
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Being in shape requires participating in a consistent cardiovascular and resistance training program along with following a healthy diet. Staying in shape reduces your risk of certain health concerns like stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and certain cancers. Remaining dedicated to being in shape improves your quality of life so you can enjoy your health for many years to come.

Healthy Body Fat Percentage

Consistent diet and exercise burns calories and builds lean muscle tissue, which helps you to reach and maintain a healthy body fat percentage. Excessive amounts of body fat can cause major health problems like coronary heart disease, diabetes, stroke and respiratory problems.

Heart Health

Cardiovascular exercise remains a vital element for staying in shape. Regular cardiovascular exercise like running or cycling strengthens your heart and improves the efficiency of your cardiovascular system to circulate oxygenated blood throughout your body.

Quality of Life

Being in shape allows you to enjoy physical activities and tasks without losing your breath or becoming fatigued quickly. Being in shape allows you to keep up with your children as you play. Household tasks like yard work or cleaning become easier to accomplish. Improvements in muscular strength from resistance training allow you to lift objects that you may not have been able to carry before.

Mental State

Regular physical activity causes a chemical release in the body that can leave you feeling relaxed and in a positive mindset. Improvements in your appearance caused by regular diet and exercise boost your confidence as well. Improving your mood and self-confidence through staying in shape helps you to take on difficult tasks in your life.

References

Article reviewed by JamesS Last updated on: Jul 29, 2011

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