We all know exercise is good for us, but do you really know just how good? From lifting your mood to spicing up your love life, here’s how getting active can totally improve your life.
By the Mayo Clinic Team
Want to feel better, have more energy, and maybe even live longer? Just get moving!
The perks of regular exercise are pretty hard to ignore. Seriously, everyone can benefit from it, no matter your age, gender, or fitness level.
Still need a little push to get off the couch? Check out these seven reasons why exercise can make you happier and healthier.
- Keeps Your Weight in Check
Exercise helps you avoid gaining extra pounds and can help you maintain any weight you’ve lost. When you move around, you burn calories, and the more intense the workout, the more calories you torch.
Hitting the gym is awesome, but don’t stress if you can’t squeeze in a long workout every day. Any bit of activity is better than none! Just try to be more active throughout your day—take the stairs instead of the elevator or crank up your chores. The key is to stay consistent.
- Fights Off Health Issues
Worried about heart problems or high blood pressure? No matter your current weight, being active can boost your “good” cholesterol and lower the bad stuff, keeping your blood flowing smoothly and reducing your risk of heart disease.
Regular exercise can help prevent or manage a bunch of health issues, like:
- Stroke
- Metabolic syndrome
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Certain cancers
- Arthritis
- Falls
Plus, it can help your brain work better and lower your risk of dying from all sorts of things.
- Lifts Your Mood
Need a pick-me-up? A workout or a brisk walk can do wonders. Getting active releases brain chemicals that can make you feel happier, more relaxed, and less anxious.
You might also feel better about how you look, which can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
- Gives You More Energy
Feeling wiped out after grocery shopping or doing chores? Regular exercise can help build your muscle strength and endurance.
When you work out, your body gets better at sending oxygen and nutrients to your tissues, making your heart and lungs work more efficiently. The result? More energy for your daily tasks!
- Helps You Sleep Better
Having trouble catching Z’s? Regular exercise can help you fall asleep faster and improve the quality of your sleep. Just try not to work out too close to bedtime, or you might be too pumped up to sleep! - Spices Up Your Love Life
Feeling too tired or out of shape for some romance? Regular exercise can boost your energy and confidence, which can definitely help in the bedroom.
Plus, it can enhance arousal for women, and men who work out regularly are less likely to have issues with erectile dysfunction.
- Can Be Fun and Social!
Exercise doesn’t have to be a drag! It’s a great way to unwind, enjoy the outdoors, or just do things that make you happy. Plus, it’s a perfect chance to hang out with friends or family in a fun setting.
So why not try a dance class, hit the hiking trails, or join a soccer team? Find something you love and go for it. If you’re feeling bored, switch it up or invite some friends along!
Get Moving for Fun and Feel-Good Vibes
Exercise is a fantastic way to boost your mood, improve your health, and have a blast. For most healthy adults, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests:
- Aerobic Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week. You can mix it up too! Spread it out over several days.
For even more benefits, try to hit 300 minutes a week. But remember, even small amounts of activity can make a difference!
- Strength Training: Work on all major muscle groups at least twice a week. Just one set of each exercise is enough to reap the benefits. Use weights or resistance that tire your muscles after about 12 to 15 reps.
Moderate aerobic activities include brisk walking, biking, swimming, and mowing the lawn. Vigorous activities include running, swimming laps, heavy yard work, and aerobic dancing.
You can do strength training with weights, your own body weight, or resistance bands. If you’re looking to lose weight or hit specific fitness goals, you might need to step it up a notch.
And hey, always check with a healthcare pro before starting a new exercise routine, especially if you have any health concerns or haven’t worked out in a while.
