Exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can improve your mental health, help you sleep better and prevent many diseases — all of which may add up to a longer life.
It can give you more energy
When you exercise regularly, you increase your heart rate and blood flow so that more oxygen and nutrients get to your muscles, which means you feel less fatigued. This helps you feel more energetic throughout the day, which can lead to better moods and more productive work.
It can strengthen your bones and muscles
Regular exercise can boost bone density, which lowers the risk of osteoporosis as you age. It also can reduce your risk of falls, which is a common problem for older adults.
It can help you manage your weight and diabetes
If you have diabetes, exercise can help to control your blood sugar levels. It can also help you lose weight if you have obesity.
It can help you quit smoking
Several studies have shown that exercise can make it easier to stop smoking because it helps to reduce the cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with cigarettes. It can also help you stay at a healthy weight when you do stop.
It can protect your brain
Research shows that exercising regularly increases the growth of new neurons in the brain, which helps to increase memory and thinking skills. It also helps to keep these skills sharp and can reduce the effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
It can lower your risk of developing cancer
Regular physical activity can help to reduce your risk of certain types of cancer, including breast, colon, endometrial and prostate. It can also help to prevent or delay some forms of ovarian, lung, kidney and esophageal cancers.
It can protect your skin
Getting enough physical activity is essential to keeping your skin healthy, as it provides antioxidant protection and promotes blood flow. It can also slow the signs of aging in your skin, such as wrinkles and dark spots.
It can improve your mood
During and after exercise, the body releases chemicals that can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to better mental health. These are known as endorphins and can give you a sense of well-being and relaxation.
It can improve your self-esteem
If you exercise regularly, you will likely feel more confident about yourself and your appearance. This can boost your confidence and make you more able to face challenges in life, which can reduce your risk of depression.
It can boost your mood
Physical activity can help to improve your mood by releasing endorphins, which are natural painkillers. It can also improve your feelings of self-esteem and happiness by promoting feelings of self-worth.
It can help you manage your blood pressure and cholesterol level
When you exercise regularly, your body makes more high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, or the “good” cholesterol, and it decreases low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, or the “bad” cholesterol. These changes can lower your risk of developing heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure.
