8 Benefits of Physical Exercise
Regular physical exercise not only makes you look good, it also improves your health in numerous ways and protects you from some diseases. So if you want to maintain a relaxed body, here are 8 of the best benefits of physical exercise that you should know about and incorporate into your daily life as soon as possible.
1) stress relief
Stress relief through exercise is just one reason why a little extra movement can be a big help. Exercising regularly has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression, fatigue, and muscle pain. In addition, hand exercise has been found to reduce stress levels and improve health by lowering heart rate and blood pressure while releasing endorphins that stimulate immune system function. Streching legs is also good way to keep joints healthy, avoiding osteoarthritis and other joint issues in your future.
2) Improved sleep
A good night’s sleep improves your body's ability to recover, lowers stress levels and prevents weight gain. A 2013 study published in PLOS ONE found that not getting enough sleep is as bad for your health as smoking or being an alcoholic. When you aren't sleeping enough, hormones such as cortisol remain elevated, which can negatively affect insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels, increasing your risk for diabetes. Poor sleep also can lead to poor eating habits and lack of exercise.
3) Relaxation
Working out is a great way to stay healthy, but it can also be stressful on your body. It’s important to learn how to relax! Try stretching exercises or hand exercise. Work slowly from joint to joint and release any tension you feel as you go along.
4) Decreased risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, stroke and osteoporosis
Individuals who practice yoga and regular physical exercise on a regular basis show improved overall cardiovascular fitness. The result is reduced risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, stroke and osteoporosis. And while not an immediate effect, yoga can even improve muscle strength and bone density over time. For example, a six-month daily practice of Iyengar yoga helped prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women by increasing spinal bone density.
5) Lower blood pressure
The higher your blood pressure, the greater your risk for heart disease and stroke. Regular physical activity can help lower your blood pressure. If you already have high blood pressure, check with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program. Your doctor may want to monitor you closely or may even recommend starting slowly by walking or doing stretches several times per week. Over time, add more activity as you get stronger and feel ready for it.
6) Decreased risk of colon cancer
Being active may reduce your risk of developing colon cancer. Men and women who are physically active have a 20% lower risk of developing colon cancer than those who exercise only occasionally. Exercising vigorously at least once a week may decrease your risk by as much as 50%.
7) Stronger bones
Regular exercise is an important component of bone health, especially for postmenopausal women. Participating in weight-bearing exercises helps strengthen bones and prevent osteoporosis and other serious bone disorders.
8) Gain confidence
Nothing boosts self-confidence more than getting fit. Why is physical fitness so essential to feeling good about yourself? Because confidence comes from within, and when you feel physically strong, you radiate a certain kind of energy that makes people want to be around you. If your confidence is low right now, get yourself on a workout schedule today. Go for a run or hit up a few yoga classes; they’ll do wonders for your self-esteem.