The dictionary defines an excuse as an explanation offered to justify or obtain forgiveness.  When it comes to exercise, people are constantly fabricating reasons as to why they can’t engage in physical activity.  Maybe they feel an unidentified illness approaching, maybe that childhood injury will flare up, or maybe their schedules are too demanding and the gym doesn’t fit into their daily itinerary.   In actuality, they are searching for a justification of pure laziness, and this rationalization does not exist.  And if they feed into the explanations concocted within their heads, their health will not forgive them! 

Exercise should not be viewed as a benefit, but as a necessity that our physical and mental wellbeing depends on to thrive!  Below is a list of the top 10 reasons to exercise, and once the advantages of working out are thoroughly comprehended, the nationwide search for an excuse will come to a sudden halt, and people will think twice before forgoing their next sweat session.

Reason #1: Mental stability and improved mood

When a person’s heart rate is increased from bodily movements, neurotransmitters known as endorphins are released throughout their body, and these lovely little guys carry the power to relieve pain and evoke positive emotions within the mind.  Basically, exercise is an affordable and convenient method of therapy that doesn’t require a fancy PPO plan.  And when this happiness is induced and people look and feel their best, their self-esteem is likewise elevated along with their mood.

Reason #2: Weight loss assistance and management

Obesity is a common and widespread concern, and as excess fat accumulates, so does a person’s risk of developing certain diseases and cancers.  It is no revelation that working out burns calories, and physical activity can assist people in their efforts to lose weight and enable them to maintain a healthy body mass.  While healthful habits are equally important, they need to be supplemented with exercise, and together this team of two can successfully combat fat.

Reason #3: Increased energy    

Aerobic activity gets and keeps the heart pumping and metabolism soaring.  This inner activation turns on the body’s energy switch and keeps the vigor alive throughout the day while fighting fatigue.  This increased liveliness also amplifies endurance and can improve a person’s sex life by providing lasting stamina.  Just think, if you get up and start moving, you can also get things going in the bedroom! (amongst other places)

Reason #4: Improved cardiovascular health

A permanent exercise routine promotes cardiovascular health, as continual increases in a person’s heart rate will allow this internal organ to pump more effectively and increase circulation.  This improved functioning can prevent the arteries from hardening and decrease inflammation, thus reducing a person’s risk of developing coronary artery disease.  Exercise further averts heart disease by improving the body’s interaction with insulin, which also lowers the risk of diabetes.

Reason #5: Reduce risk of cancer

Obesity and inactivity can accelerate the production of estrogen and insulin, which can adversely entice cancerous cells to grow.  The hormonal regulation evoked by frequent exercise can reduce the risk of certain types of cancer such as breast and colon.

Reason #6: Reduce risk of high blood pressure and high cholesterol

Since exercise strengthens the heart and allows it to pump at its highest potential, blood flow is increased.  Therefore, it moves throughout the body with less exertion, taking stress away from the arteries and pressure off of the blood.  At the same time, physical activity helps the body remove LDL (lipoprotein linked to heart disease) from the blood stream and circulate the healthy protein particles, thus stabilizing cholesterol levels.

Reason #7: Strengthens muscles, bones, and joints

Exercise and endurance training increases muscle mass, allowing a person to become physically stronger and burn more calories throughout the day.  It likewise strengthens the bones, and this augmented density reduces the risk of osteoporosis.  The joints are also catered to through physical activity, expanding a person’s range of motion.  The heightened flexibility improves sports related performances and athletic abilities, and it decreases the chance of developing arthritis throughout the aging process.

Reason #8: Decreases stress levels

The stabilization of hormones and inducement of endorphins that is brought on by exercise reduces a person’s stress levels, alleviating physical and mental conditions encouraged by anxiety.  This peaceful state of mind promotes a sense of relaxation and regulates a person’s sleeping pattern.

Reason #9: Enhanced bodily functions

With all the internal benefits and strengthened organs, other bodily operations are likewise positively affected by exercise, and regular fitness can improve digestive health, boost the immune system, and even make a person’s skin shine.  When a person’s body is functioning at peak performance, their lifespan has opportunity for expansion and years could be added to their life.

Reason #10: Provides fun and social excitement

Physical action can indeed be fun, and many activities like bike riding, hiking, and basketball provide exciting social gatherings, where a person can interact with others while benefiting their health.  Also, the gym and fitness classes are great places to meet people and make friends with similar goals and interests.

There they are; the top ten reasons to exercise.  Let’s see…mental and physical health benefits, better sleep, a longer life, sexual perks…everyone should be putting on their gym attire as they read this!  No matter how busy a person is, nothing is more important than their health, and exercise should be a priority and placed at the top of a to-do list.  Next time someone embarks on a search for an excuse, the only discovery they will make is that they don’t have one!

Train Well, Eat Well and Live Well with www.TrainEatLive.com