03 Mar Six reasons to exercise more
Good news! Research tells us there are health benefits to even short periods of physical activity – like 10 minutes. It also suggests several mini workouts throughout the day may be more effective than a single session at the gym when it comes to countering an otherwise sedentary day and optimizing our health. Suddenly a little exercise seems do-able for everyone… even couch potatoes.
Here are six reasons to hop off the bus of subway a stop or two early; to turn your coffee break into a brisk walk; and to walk the kids to school instead of driving them. A little extra exercise can go a long way!
- Exercise fights chronic disease: Regular exercise can help prevent or manage high blood pressure as well as type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and many types of cancer.
- Exercise improves your mood: Stressful day? Exercise stimulates brain chemicals that can leave you happier and more relaxed. Regular physical activity can even help prevent and treat mild to moderate depression.
- Exercise can help you maintain your weight: Although exercise alone rarely leads to weight loss, it can help with weight maintenance. A number of studies suggest people who are overweight but active, outlive those who are slim but inactive. Regardless of the number on the scale, exercise is important for our health.
- Exercise can add spark to your sex life: Too tired to have sex? Regular activity can leave you with enough energy for a little something-something.
- Exercise promotes better sleep: Physical activity can lead to better sleep, but don’t exercise too close to bedtime — it could backfire and keep you up.
- Boost your energy level: Exercise can give you more energy to get through your busy day. Instead of heading to the vending machine for a chocolate bar, grab your water bottle and take a brisk 10-minute walk.
