"Start exercising today!"… 10 ways your body will change starting now.

"Start exercising today!"… 10 ways your body will change starting now.

Everyone knows that exercise is good for our health. However, many people don't fully understand just how much it can benefit them.

Exercise isn't just about slimming down and helping you walk along the beach. It also improves strength, endurance, cardio, and flexibility, all of which contribute to a better overall quality of life. Based on data from American online media outlets like HuffPost, we've compiled the benefits of exercise.

 

“Lowers blood pressure”

 

When unnecessary substances accumulate in blood vessels, blood pressure rises. Exercise removes these waste products and makes blood vessels more elastic. However, strength training involving lifting heavy equipment can increase blood pressure, so those with high blood pressure should avoid strenuous exercise.

“It helps prevent various types of cancer.”

 

Colon cancer occurs when you eat too little fiber and consume too much animal fat. Another risk factor for colon cancer is lack of exercise. One study found that regular exercise reduces the risk of colon cancer by 40%.

Additionally, people with colon cancer who exercise regularly can reduce the risk of cancer metastasis or recurrence. Research also shows that physical activity improves menstrual cycles and reduces the risk of breast cancer.

 

“Reduces bad cholesterol”

 

Regular exercise lowers levels of bad cholesterol (LDL), which can lead to poor circulation. Conversely, it increases levels of good cholesterol (HDL), which helps transport cholesterol from blood vessel walls to the liver.

 

“Strengthens heart function”

 

Aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking or jogging, which increases your heart rate (HR), strengthens your heart function.

 

“It helps you sleep well”

 

Moderate exercise improves sleep quality. Moderate exercise about six hours before bedtime gradually builds fatigue, putting you in a better position for sleep. However, be careful not to exercise excessively or too close to bedtime, as this can cause sleep disturbances.

 

“Reduces anxiety and depression”

 

Regular exercise acts like a treatment for depression, relieving stress and boosting positive mood.

“It boosts confidence”

 

Exercise builds a strong, lean body and balanced muscles, increasing your mobility. Furthermore, the more energetic you become, the more confident you become, which can even improve your interpersonal relationships.

 

“Improves metabolic rate”

 

Exercise not only burns calories stored in the body, but also increases your "resting metabolic rate," helping you burn more calories even when you're resting.

 

“It facilitates joint movement”

 

Flexibility exercises loosen stiff and tight joints, making movement easier. This reduces pain associated with activity and inflammation that can lead to arthritis.

 

“Improves activity”

 

Exercise improves your physical fitness, making it easier to perform functional activities. It improves your mobility, making it easier to use the stairs when the elevator is crowded and lifting and moving objects.