The Top 10 Benefits of Physical Activity
It’s well known that exercise is good for the body, but it also offers a host of other health benefits. People who exercise regularly have a lower risk of many diseases, are more flexible, have more energy, and look and feel great.
Regular exercise helps prevent weight gain, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. It keeps bones strong and increases muscle strength. It also reduces the risk of cancer and improves sleep quality. Exercise also helps to keep the mind sharp and may even help combat Alzheimer’s and dementia through increased blood flow to the brain and a release of chemicals called endorphins that make you feel happy.
One of the best things about exercise is that it’s accessible to everyone regardless of age, ability or body size. There are lots of different types of exercise and you can start small by doing what feels comfortable for you, whether that’s going on a walk, playing football with friends, or dancing to your favourite music.
Aside from the obvious physical benefits, there are also many emotional and social benefits of exercise. It can relieve stress, boost self-esteem and give you a sense of achievement and pride at mastering a new routine or beating your personal best in an event such as a race. It can also help you develop stronger bonds with those around you and improve your social skills.
Besides feeling and looking healthy, exercising can also have a positive impact on your life by helping you to live longer. Studies have shown that people who are active regularly have a 30 per cent lower chance of dying early than those who don’t exercise.
Taking part in activities that require a good level of fitness, such as playing sports or running, also provides other important health benefits, such as being able to travel and enjoy the outdoors more. A lack of physical fitness can make it difficult to take part in these activities, which often leads to an unhealthy lifestyle and a higher risk of disease and mental health issues. There are a variety of barriers that can prevent people from getting enough physical activity, such as cost, injury or illness, work and family commitments, or anxiety about the way they look. However, practical and emotional support from family, friends and experts can help people overcome these barriers and get active.
Milena Estêvão is a YouTuber passionate about sharing her experiences (challenges, successes and motivations) in the fitness activities she is involved in.
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