Facts about Exercise
There is no doubt exercise is beneficial to the health of the body, here are some of the physical and psychological benefits
“There is no drug in current or prospective use that holds as much promise for sustained health as a lifetime program of physical exercise.”
Dr. Bortz, Department of Medicine as Palo Alto, California Medical Center
Physical Benefits of Exercise
- Strengthens the heart
- Strengthens the lungs
- Can lengthen lifespan
- Helps prevent heart disease
- Assists weight management
- Lowers blood sugar
- Lowers cholesterol
- Helps control symptoms of PMS for many women
- Strengthens immunity (when not done in excess)
- Improves glandular function
- Improves nervous system function
- Improves appearance (better muscle tone, more self-confidence and poise)
- Improves skin tone (increases blood flow to the skin and helps the body eliminate toxins that would otherwise harm skin)
- Increases burning of calories (metabolism remains increased several hours after exercise ends)
Psychological Benefits of Exercise
- Helps you think more clearly, possibly by increasing oxygen flow to the brain
- Studies show exercise may be more effective than drugs in lifting depression. It stimulates endorphins, “feel good” chemicals.
- Helps the body eliminate toxins (toxins in the body may have some association with depression, anxiety
- Helps one gain a sense of being more in control of his/her life
How Much Exercise Do You Need?
The idea of having to knock yourself out with hard exercise to reap benefits is outdated. Moderate exercise, such as walking 30 to 50 minutes three or four times per week, will allow you to reap the benefits of exercise listed above. In fact, over-exercise can actually lead to decreased immunity, weakened bones and joints,, and generally lowered health.
Practical Ways to Get More Exercise
- Park your car farther away from your shopping place.
- Take a walk at break time.
- Mow the lawn with a hand mower rather than a gas or electric one.
- Shovel snow rather than use a snow blower.
- Weed the garden, flower beds, etc.
- Go for a walk after dinner.
- Use the stairs rather than the elevator.
- Play games with your kids/grandkids.
- Run in place while watching television
- Buy a dog and walk him/her every day.
