Reasons to Exercise that Don’t Include Losing Weight

If you’ve ever tried to lose weight, you’ve no doubt been told that exercise can help the pounds come off more quickly. But losing weight isn’t the only reason to work physical activity into your daily life. Check out all the other benefits of regular exercise.

4 Benefits of Exercise

• Exercise can put you in a good mood. Physical activity helps stimulate brain chemicals that make you feel happier and more relaxed. Being active on a regular basis can also help prevent or lessen the effects of depression.
• Exercise can help you avoid disease. A daily workout can help prevent type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and other chronic illnesses, including some types of cancer. If you’re already battling high blood pressure or cholesterol, exercise can help you manage these health problems.
• Exercise can give you more energy. People who begin working out more frequently often talk about “feeling better,” and with good reason! Physical activity provides your tissues with essential oxygen and nutrients and makes your heart and lungs work more efficiently. The end result is more energy throughout your day.
• Exercise can improve your sex life. If working out helps you look and feel better about the way you look, you might notice an improvement in your sex life. Exercise can also increase arousal in women and decrease the risk for erectile dysfunction in men.