You know exercise is good for you because everyone from healthcare professionals to magazine articles and news programs is always saying so. If you knew just how good, would that be enough to get you moving? Well, just read on for a new, or fresh, focus on fitness.
Exercise reduces your risk of heart disease
According to the American Heart Association heart attack and stroke are the number 1 and 5 causes of death in the United States, respectively. Want to lower your risk? Exercise at moderate intensity at least 30 minutes five times or a total of 150 minutes weekly. The best part is you can do whatever you love that also gets your heart rate up. So, dance the night away, take a hike, bike, swim do whatever you like – just move.
Exercise reduces your risk of colon cancer
About 1 in 20 Americans will be diagnosed with colon cancer in his or her lifetime. You can reduce your chances of being the one with exercise. The American Cancer Society advises cutting back on processed meats such as hot dogs and luncheon meats, as well as red meats like beef and lamb. They also recommend maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular exercise to reduce your risk of colon cancer.
Exercise reduces your risk of diabetes, too
The American Diabetes Association wants you to exercise. That’s because medical researchers have found that aerobic exercise “… lowers your risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke by keeping your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels on target.” Again, 30 minutes five times weekly is enough to help. If you have been sedentary for a while start slowly and add more minutes as you are able. Exercise can help even if you already have type 2 diabetes. Exercise to lose just 5 to 10 percent of your body weight and you may slow or stop the progress of the disease. In fact, you may even be able to come off of your medication.
Lower blood pressure with exercise
According to a New York Times article, exercise helps lower blood pressure by altering blood pressure stiffness so blood flows more freely. All movement counts. Stand while you take calls or find ten minutes a few times throughout the day to get in a walk, some jumping jacks or mountain climbers.
And that isn’t all exercise can do for you…
There may not be a fountain of eternal youth or health but exercise certainly comes close. Exercise helps you remain independent longer by boosting functional fitness. That means you will reduce your risk of falls, and more easily step, reach and carry as you age. You’ll sleep better, too. Exercise is an excellent stress buster and is as effective as medication for managing mild to moderate depression. Because exercise boosts circulation it also helps you have younger looking skin. There is so much exercise can do for you. Why not get started today and plan to keep moving all life long?
