TammyNC
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Dec 7, 2003
- Messages
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In surfing the web this morning I ran across this on Bob Greene's website and thought I'd share it with you.
Why Exercise? 20 Reasons!
Tuesday, February 3, 2004 Posted: 5:13 EDT
by Michael Stefano
Special For eFitness
With all we now know about the benefits of exercise, it's hard to believe more Americans don't work out. It's the closest thing yet to the fountain of youth, and truly the ONLY way to change the appearance, shape, and strength of your body.
In addition, the health benefits associated with an intelligently orchestrated strength, flexibility and cardiovascular training program can add quality years to your life.
Everyone exercises for different reasons. But no matter your initial motivation, you still get ALL the benefits. Below is a list of 20 reasons why you should work out. If you can find even one benefit on this list, you'll have enough reason to begin an exercise program and take steps to take care of yourself.
Regular exercise can...
Help you lose weight, especially fat
Improve your physical appearance
Increase your level of muscular strength and endurance
Maintain your resting metabolic rate to prevent weight gain
Increase your stamina and ability to do continuous work
Improve fitness levels, or your body's ability to use oxygen
Provide protection against injury
Improve your balance and coordination
Increase bone mineral density to prevent osteoporosis
Lower resting heart rate and blood pressure
Lower Body Mass Index (BMI) -- your fat-to-height ratio
Reduce triglycerides, bad cholesterol (LDL), raises good cholesterol (HDL)
Enhance sexual desire and performance
Reduce heart disease risk and stroke
Reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer
Increase insulin sensitivity -- prevents type 2 diabetes
Reduce your level of anxiety and help you manage stress
Improve function of the immune system
Improve your self-esteem and restore confidence
Help you sleep better, relax, and improve mood
Why Exercise? 20 Reasons!
Tuesday, February 3, 2004 Posted: 5:13 EDT
by Michael Stefano
Special For eFitness
With all we now know about the benefits of exercise, it's hard to believe more Americans don't work out. It's the closest thing yet to the fountain of youth, and truly the ONLY way to change the appearance, shape, and strength of your body.
In addition, the health benefits associated with an intelligently orchestrated strength, flexibility and cardiovascular training program can add quality years to your life.
Everyone exercises for different reasons. But no matter your initial motivation, you still get ALL the benefits. Below is a list of 20 reasons why you should work out. If you can find even one benefit on this list, you'll have enough reason to begin an exercise program and take steps to take care of yourself.
Regular exercise can...
Help you lose weight, especially fat
Improve your physical appearance
Increase your level of muscular strength and endurance
Maintain your resting metabolic rate to prevent weight gain
Increase your stamina and ability to do continuous work
Improve fitness levels, or your body's ability to use oxygen
Provide protection against injury
Improve your balance and coordination
Increase bone mineral density to prevent osteoporosis
Lower resting heart rate and blood pressure
Lower Body Mass Index (BMI) -- your fat-to-height ratio
Reduce triglycerides, bad cholesterol (LDL), raises good cholesterol (HDL)
Enhance sexual desire and performance
Reduce heart disease risk and stroke
Reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer
Increase insulin sensitivity -- prevents type 2 diabetes
Reduce your level of anxiety and help you manage stress
Improve function of the immune system
Improve your self-esteem and restore confidence
Help you sleep better, relax, and improve mood