It is well known that regular physical activity helps with weight management, but there are many other benefits of exercise, both physical and mental!
Here are ten benefits of regular exercise:
1. Reduce health risk and chance of developing diseases
Regular physical activity can help to decrease the risk of developing diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and some cancers.
2. Strengthen bones and muscles
Weight bearing activity can preserve bone quality and reduce the development of osteoporosis in ageing individuals. Strengthening bones and muscles will aid when ageing to avoid falls and keep healthy.
3. Improve sleep
Moderate to vigorous intensity exercise has been shown to increase both sleep quantity and quality.
4. Reduce anxiety levels and improve mental health
Exercise creates new activity patterns in the brain that promote feelings of calm and well-being. It can also be an enjoyable distraction and a great way to unwind, helping to reduce the risk of depression.
5. Reduce stress levels
Exercise can help to relieve tension within the body and when the body is relaxed, so too is the mind.
6. Increase heart health & blood circulation
By improving heart health and circulation, the oxygen levels in your body are increased which helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Exercise can also lower blood pressure and triglyceride levels.
7. Boosts self-confidence & sense of wellbeing
Exercise causes the release of endorphins which improve your mood. It also can help to increase your levels of confidence and self-esteem.
8. Enhances brain function and memory
Exercise stimulates the release of chemicals that help to improve the structure and function of the brain. This can improve thinking, learning and judgement skills.
9. Increases energy levels
Exercise gives you more energy to complete everyday activities and all the things that you enjoy!
10. Can enhance social life
Exercise is a great way to socialise – whether it is training with a friend or joining in on a group fitness class. It is also an opportunity to create new connections in the community with like-minded people.
The recommended amount of exercise is 30 minutes per day or at least 150 minutes per week. If you struggle to add exercise into your life: try exercising with friends or family, set goals and keep track of your progress, schedule your daily exercise in and make sure to find activities that you enjoy!
If you’re looking for help to set up an exercise plan, 360 Health + Community’s team of highly qualified Accredited Exercise Physiologists are on hand to get you moving so that you can reach your health and wellbeing goals. Call us on 1300 706 922 or send an email to info@360.org.au.
About 360 Health + Community
Established in 2015 from three Medicare local providers, 360 Health + Community is a mental health, disability and healthy lifestyle service provider in Western Australia.
Our team, of more than 130 health professionals, is committed to enhancing the lives of people across the State, through better health, community engagement and social care.
At 360 Health + Community, we provide a unique range of personalised and interconnected services that support our clients to best manage their mental and physical health and social wellbeing.
