A Few Fitness Benefits

By: Crystal Shelton

There are important benefits to having a regular fitness routine:

  • Helps reduce the risk of chronic disease in adulthood: Engaging in at least 30 min of moderate-intensity physical activity, above usual activity, at work or home on most days of the week.
  • Helps manage body weight and prevent gradual, unhealthy body weight gain in adulthood: Engaging in approximately 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity activity on most days of the week while not exceeding caloric intake requirements
  • Helps sustain weight loss in adulthood: Participate in at least 60 to 90 minutes of daily moderate-intensity physical activity while not exceeding caloric intake requirements.

Additionally, participating in normal physical activity will also boost confidence, increase energy, assist in weight loss and much more. Working out can increase muscle mass which in turn supports bones from fractures and breaks. Exercise also promotes mental health. During exercise, endorphins are released which cause feelings of bliss.

It is easy to find an excuse not to work out, so it is important to have a routine and stick to it! There are small things that can be done that increase calories burned throughout the day. Examples of these include taking the stairs instead of the elevator and parking farther away from the door at work or when running errands. Stretching in the morning and/or in the evening is also a good habit to get into. Stretching helps improve flexibility and decrease chances of injury. If finding time to get to the gym is difficult, try using everyday objects found at home such as water bottles and stairs which can replace dumbbells and machines.