Physical fitness is not just about looking good; it’s about living a healthier life. Engaging in regular exercise can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even cancer. According to Grayson Wickham, DPT, CSCS, founder of Movement Vault, a mobility and movement company in New York City, “Fitness is the one thing that can help prevent almost any type of disease.”
The importance of exercise is so widely recognized that in 2007, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) partnered with the American Medical Association to launch the Exercise Is Medicine initiative. This initiative aims to make physical activity assessment a routine part of medical care and provide exercise resources to individuals of all ability levels. The benefits of physical activity are scientifically proven and can be as powerful as medication in preventing and treating various chronic diseases and medical conditions.
Exercise Boosts Your Mood
Regular exercise not only improves physical health but also has a positive impact on mental well-being. Research shows that exercise can act as a buffer against depression and anxiety. In fact, it is even used as a treatment for these conditions. Exercise may help reduce inflammation, a factor often associated with depression. Additionally, physical activity can promote favorable changes in the brain, which contribute to improved mood and mental health.
Exercise Is Good for Sleep
If you struggle with sleep, exercise can be the solution. Numerous studies have found that habitual exercise improves sleep quality and duration. Exercise helps regulate your body’s internal clock, promotes chemical changes in the brain that support sleep, and reduces presleep anxiety. However, it’s important to note that high-intensity exercise done too close to bedtime may interfere with sleep. It is recommended to complete your workout earlier in the day.
Exercise Promotes Long-Term Health
The benefits of exercise extend far beyond immediate physical and mental well-being. Engaging in regular physical activity has been shown to improve brain and bone health, preserve muscle mass, enhance your sex life, improve gastrointestinal function, and reduce the risk of numerous diseases, including cancer and stroke. In fact, research involving over 116,000 adults found that meeting the recommended 150 to 300 minutes of physical activity per week reduced the risk of death from any cause by 19 percent.
Fitness Helps You Manage Chronic Disease
Exercise plays a crucial role in managing chronic health conditions. Whether you have osteoarthritis, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, or have had a stroke or cancer, physical activity can significantly improve your quality of life. Exercise helps decrease pain, improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control, enhance mobility, strengthen the heart, lower the risk of other chronic diseases, and contribute to good mental health.
If you have a chronic disease and are looking to stay active or increase your activity levels, starting a walking routine is generally a safe and effective choice. According to experts, most individuals do not need clearance from their doctor to engage in walking as exercise, unless specifically advised otherwise. Physical activity should be seen as a baseline, and clearance from a doctor should be sought only if advised against exercising.
It’s important to listen to your body and seek medical attention if you experience concerning symptoms during exercise, such as excessive shortness of breath or chest pain.
Regular exercise is more than just a trend; it is a key factor in leading a healthy life. Embrace the benefits of physical activity and take charge of your well-being.
Learn more about the incredible benefits of exercise and how it can transform your life at F5mag.com.