1. INCREASE ENERGY
The belief of being “too tired” to exercise is based on a misperception, since it is often the lack of exercise that tires us. In fact, all the studies prove it: physical training increases our energy and our ability to recover after an effort. In short, there is nothing like it to give us some pep!
2. WEIGHT CONTROL
Exercising is a great way to control weight and even lose it! The ideal is to combine cardiovascular exercises and resistance exercises. The former significantly increase caloric expenditure during exercise and stimulate the metabolism during the hours that follow. The latter increase muscle mass, which results in a permanent improvement in basal metabolism and, consequently, in a greater general caloric expenditure.
3. PREVENTION OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES
It’s a fact, exercise reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Regular exercise directly combats atherosclerosis, strengthens the heart muscle and makes the blood more fluid, which prevents the formation of clots. Exercise also protects us from obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
4. BONE STRENGTHENING
As a general rule, between the ages of 35 and 50, we lose 7 to 12% of our bone mass. However, exercising helps prevent this loss. Activities where we support our weight (walking, jogging, tennis, rollerblading, etc.) and those where we have to lift loads (weights and dumbbells, for example) are the best for strengthening bones.
5. REDUCE BACK PAIN
Statistics prove it: about 80% of chronic lower back pain is caused by lack of physical activity. You should know that the pelvis is maintained in its normal position thanks to the balanced tension between two groups of muscles: those of the abdomen and those of the lower back. However, the lack of exercise weakens the abdominals, which in the long run causes the pelvis to move forward. Over time, the lower back becomes more and more hollow and chronic pain gradually sets in. Active people suffer 10 times less often from lower back pain than those who are sedentary.
6. PROTECTION AGAINST CERTAIN CANCERS
For several years, there has been a link between physical exercise and cancer prevention. According to some studies, active people are less likely to get cancer than those who are sedentary. Research has shown that physical activity protects against colon cancer and may reduce the risk of breast, ovarian, endometrial, prostate and lung cancer.
7. SLEEP IMPROVEMENT
According to some studies, exercise promotes better sleep. It causes physical fatigue and brings mental relaxation providing a more restorative rest. Cardiovascular exercises are the most effective in increasing the quality of slow-wave sleep, the most important phase for physical recovery.
8. STRESS REDUCTION
Physical activity is one of the best ways to release stress and lessen its damaging effects. A 30-minute cardiovascular exercise session reduces stress for a period of two to four hours! Also, research has shown that the more stressed a person is, the more they benefit from the tranquilizing effect of exercise.
9. PREVENTION OF DEPRESSION
Exercise provides general well-being. It has a positive effect on morale and psychological health, which helps to face hardships and keep depression at bay. We know that physical activity increases the level of serotonin in the blood, a neurotransmitter in the brain that promotes relaxation and a good mood. It increases the secretion of endorphins, euphoric hormones which are of the same family as morphine.
10. INCREASE LONGEVITY
According to numerous scientific studies, 50% of the signs attributed to normal aging actually come from a sedentary lifestyle. Data proves that exercise substantially decreases the risk of early death from disease and significantly increases longevity.
