We know that staying active is one of the best ways to keep our body healthy. But did you know it can also improve your overall well-being and quality of life?
Here are some of the ways physical activity can help you feel better, look better, and live better.
Improves mood naturally.
Regular physical activity can relieve stress, anxiety, depression, and anger. You know that “good feeling” you get after doing physical activity? Imagine it as a happy pill with no side effects. Most people feel better over time when physical activity becomes a regular part of their lives.
It keeps you in good physical shape.
Without regular activity, the body slowly loses its strength, endurance, and ability to function properly. It's like the old saying: "A man doesn't stop playing because he gets old, he gets old because he stops playing." Physical exercise increases muscle strength, which, in turn, increases your ability to perform other physical activities.
It keeps the doctor away.
Stand up when you eat that apple a day. Spending too much time sitting and other sedentary activities can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. A study showed that adults who watch more than 4 hours of television a day have an 80% higher risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
Being more active can help you:
Reduce blood pressure
Increase good cholesterol levels
Improve blood flow (circulation)
Keep weight under control
Prevent bone loss that can cause osteoporosis
All of this can save you medical expenses, interventions, and medications later in life.
It can help you live longer.
60 indeed is the new 50... but only if you're healthy. People who are physically active and at a healthy weight live about seven years longer than those who are inactive and overweight. And the important part is that those extra years are usually healthier years. Staying active delays or prevents diseases and chronic conditions associated with aging. Therefore, active adults maintain their quality of life and independence for longer.
Here are some of the benefits you can get from regular physical activity:
Helps to quit smoking and live without tobacco.
Increases energy level so you can do more things.
Helps to control stress and tension.
Promotes a positive attitude and outlook.
It helps you sleep faster and more deeply.
Improves self-image and confidence.
It will encourage you to spend more time outdoors.
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity weekly aerobic activity. You can do this by spending just 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. And every minute of moderate to vigorous activity counts toward your goal.
That's easy! Simply move more, more intensely, and sit less. You don't have to make big changes in your life to see the benefits. Start by integrating more activity into your day, one step at a time.