
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!