Working Out Saves Lives

Working out is an essential part of having a full and healthy life. Working out on a consistent basis has a direct correlation to people who are extremely healthy. There are different types of exercises to do. For example, strength training, yoga, or a cardiovascular exercise have a range of positive effects on the body.

Exercise can do wonders with your sleep quality. After a tough workout, lying down in bed and sleeping is when your body is fully recovering. With this improved sleep, the likelihood of sleep disorders like insomnia go way down. “The available evidence certainly suggests that exercise could be a valuable behavioral therapy for poor or disordered sleep. ” When individuals sleep more, there mental well being and mental health improve. People begin to handle stress and challenges more effectively. Other benefits include increased efficiency and job satisfaction.

Working out plays a major role in weight management. It is a huge way to burn calories, which is crucial to maintain a healthy weight. Doing regular physical activity can really reduce the risk of various chronic diseases, including heart disease, hypertension, and certain types of cancer. Exercise has been shown to lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels. These health benefits underscore the vital role that working out plays in preventing health issue and promoting a longer and healthier life. These cognitive benefits highlight the positive impact of working out on mental acuity and overall brain function, making it a vital practice for individuals of all ages. It is very rarely too late to begin working out. “Researchers analyzed health and exercise surveys from 315,000 older adults in the 1990s, then followed up to see who was still alive in 2011. Compared with people who never exercised, older adults who’d exercised consistently since they were teenagers had a 36% lower risk of dying during the study period. Those numbers were similar to the results for people who’d been inactive in their youth and only began exercising regularly in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. That group had a 35% lower risk of dying, compared with people who never exercised.”

Working out has been known to increase brain health. Working out is a powerful tool for reducing stress and improving mental well-being. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which is the body’s natural mood lifter. The release of endorphins during exercise can eliminate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Working out also implements discipline in one’s life. Now, this can happen in different ways and most likely changes for everyone. Sometimes the discipline is creating a schedule and using time management. Personally, in the summers, I go to the gym Monday-Saturday from 8-9:30. This is how I start my day and stick to my schedule. Other people can use working out as “outdoors time” or a social part of their day. If someone is an introvert, working out is a great way to see other people even if it not direct socialization for not for a long period of time. A great example of this is going for a run. As a person jogs past someone, they do not talk, but you are still seeing another person. People tend to feel accomplished and overall happier when after they are done with their workout.

Working out is a concept that includes more than just physical activity; it is a transformative practice that improves physical and mental health. Research shows regular exercise strengthens the body, prevents disease, reduces stress, and enhances brain function. “Heart disease and stroke are two leading causes of death in the United States. Getting at least 150 minutes a week of moderate physical activity can put you at a lower risk for these diseases. You can reduce your risk even further with more physical activity. Regular physical activity can also lower your blood pressure and improve your cholesterol levels.” The benefits of working out extend far beyond the gym, making it an essential practice for individuals seeking to improve their life quality. Whether you are an athlete, a casual exerciser, or just beginning your fitness journey, working out offers a path to a healthier, happier, and more connected life.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, February 24). Physical activity boosts brain health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpao/features/physical-activity-brain health/index.html#:~:text=Did%20you%20know%20it’s%20good,of%20cognitive%20decline%2C%20including%20dementia.

Kerr, M. (2022, January 19). Exercise and weight loss: Importance, benefits & examples. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/exercise-and-weight-loss#benefits

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023b, August 1). Benefits of physical activity. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm#:~:text=Regular%20physical%20activity%20is%20one,ability%20to%20do%20everyday%20activities.