Seven Benefits of Exercise

By Katy Henderson andChristie Leigh Hill

Exercise

Performance of some activity in order to develop or maintain physical fitness and overall health

Strengthens Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems

Lowers the buildup of plaque in arteries by increasing HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol)

Decreases the concentration of LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol)

Prevents the onset of high blood pressure

Lowers blood pressure Promotes rhythmic,

deep breathing by developing greater capacity in lungs

Cardiovascular

Respiratory

Keeps Bones and Muscles Strong

Prevents the bone weakening disease osteoporosis

Preserves bone mass and may even increase bone density

Improves balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls

Builds muscle mass

Bones

Muscles

Manages Weight

Helps to achieve or maintain a healthy weight by burning calories

Reduce body fat by burning more calories than consumed.

Reduces risk of obesity Eases pressure on

bones and joints, preventing conditions such as arthritis

Prevents and Manages Diabetes

Coupled with a healthy diet, exercising can prevent and manage type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is caused by a resistance to the glucose transport effect of insulin on cells.

Helps insulin work better and can lower blood sugar

Reduces blood sugar by increasing sensitivity to insulin

Eases Depression and Manages Pain and Stress

Activates the neurotransmitters, serotonin and norepinephrine, associated with avoiding depression

Depression can be experienced when serotonin and norepinephrine are out of sync.

Exercise may help synchronize these chemicals.

Stimulates the production of beta-endorphins, which produce feelings of well-being

Reduces Risk of Certain Types of Cancer

Colon, prostate, uterine lining, and breast cancer can be prevented by exercise.

Helps digested food move quickly through the colon, thereby preventing colon cancer.

Lowers risk of breast and uterine cancers by reducing body fat and decreasing estrogen production.

Researchers are uncertain how exercise prevents prostate cancers.

Helps to Relax and Sleep Better Sleep helps maintain physical and mental health. Moderate exercise at least three hours before

bedtime can help a person relax and sleep better.

In Conclusion, exercise…

1 Strengthens Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems

2 Keeps Bones and Muscles Strong3 Manages Weight4 Prevents and Manages Diabetes5 Eases Depression and Manages

Pain and Stress6 Reduces Risk of Certain Types of

Cancer7 Helps to Relax and Sleep Better

To Ensure Optimal Health

Get to it and exercise!