The Incredible Benefits of Physical Activity

It's time to get healthy and lose weight. Eating well is only one piece of the puzzle. Moving more is key too! Being active helps you lose weight, but did you know it also helps reduce stress and improve your memory? Check out this list – the benefits of physical activity are incredible!

Self-esteem – heightened	Breast Cancer – reduced risk
Mood – elevated	Weight – assisted weight loss and maintenance
Anxiety and Depression – reduced	Colon Cancer – reduced risk
Memory and Brain Health – improved	Body Composition – improved
Mental Alertness – increased	Bone Loss – prevented or blunted
Sleep quality – improved	Blood Circulation – enhanced
Stress – reduced	Flexibility – increased
Energy – increased	Muscle Tone – improved
Blood Pressure – lowered (if elevated	Muscular Strength – improved
Stroke Risk – reduced	Immunity – boosted
Heart Attack Risk – reduced	Years of Independent Living – extended
Cholesterol Levels – improved	Work Productivity – increased
Diabetes – reduced risk and improved control	Sense of Accomplishment – achieved

Not sure where to start?

Moving more isn’t just about running 5Ks and torturing yourself in a spinning class. You can choose simple ways to move. Do what works for you. Work in the garden, park far away from the shopping mall, and run around with your kids! Take lunchtime walks, join a yoga class or simply take the stairs whenever possible.

● Track your steps or try 3-minute bouts if you’re pressed for time.

● Pick “fun” activities if exercise isn’t your thing.

● Amp up your natural activity- plant a vegetable garden, walk the dog or de-clutter a closet.

● Mix things up with cardio, resistance and stretching if you’re bored with your workout routine.

If exercise sounds overwhelming, don't worry, you don't have to do it all at once! It's best to spread your activity out over the week. You can also break up your activity into smaller chunks of time. As little as 10 minutes of aerobic activity, like walking, can provide health and wellness benefits. If you feel like challenging yourself, the more activity you do, the more benefits you'll see!