"I believe that the greatest gift you can give your family and the world is a healthy you."
How do you feel about working out? Is it a chore, or is it something that you enjoy and look forward to?
It’s often one of those things that you know is important, although there are so many other activities that are constantly demanding your attention.
Especially for busy, spread-too-thin moms like me!
There’s everything kid related: kids sports, friends, birthday parties, movies. Then there’s shopping for the household, weekend commitments (which for me are mostly for the kids), church, the list goes on. And on top of that, so many of us also have full time jobs!
So, as you can see the need for ‘working out’ is often placed on the back burner, because let’s face it: we’re exhausted.
But, incorporating regular exercise into your daily routine offers sooo many benefits that go beyond just physical fitness or getting a ‘summer bod’.
Whether you’re a fitness buff or in the beginner stage, here are five important reasons why exercise should become a non-negotiable part of your life.
These are 5 reasons you need to incorporate activity into your day for a healthier life:
1. Boosts Physical Health
I think this goes without saying: Regular exercise is a cornerstone of maintaining good physical health. It helps prevent chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Engaging in regular physical activity strengthens your cardiovascular system, improves circulation, and enhances lung function, resulting in increased overall vitality. I’m having a personal competition with myself lately trying to increase my V02 max to levels I’ve never had before, and I’m well on my way!
2. Mental Wellness
Exercise isn’t just for the body; it’s a powerful tool for enhancing mental wellness as well. Physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins, also known as “feel-good” hormones, which can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Regular exercise is linked to improved mood, higher self-esteem, and better cognitive function. When I’m done with a workout, I feel like I could take on the world! There are not too many things that can take my ‘off’ mood and turn it around as quickly.
3. Weight Management
For those aiming to manage their weight, exercise is an indispensable component. It burns calories, helping you create a calorie deficit that’s necessary for weight loss. Exercise helps build lean muscle mass, which can boost your metabolism and contribute to long-term weight management. My favorite has become strength training with a healthy dose of cardio. My go-to is a run on my lunch break and strength first thing in the morning 3x per week.
**Disclaimer: you cannot outrun a bad diet (that’s an entire post on its own – stay tuned)**
4. Enhances Longevity
Studies consistently show that individuals who engage in regular exercise tend to live longer and enjoy a higher quality of life in their later years. Exercise helps maintain bone density, muscle strength, and joint flexibility, which are crucial factors in preserving mobility and independence as you age. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be an old lady that can’t get around because of the lifestyle choices I make today.
5. Social Interaction and Connections
Exercise provides an opportunity to connect with others and foster social relationships. Whether you join a group fitness class, a sports team, or simply go for a walk with a friend, exercising together can strengthen your bonds and provide a sense of camaraderie, which will reduce feelings of isolation.
Exercise provides an opportunity to connect with others and foster social relationships. Whether you join a group fitness class, a sports team, or simply go for a walk with a friend, exercising together can strengthen your bonds and provide a sense of camaraderie, which will reduce feelings of isolation.
Angela's Pro-Active Tips!
"Age is Just a Number!"
Not long ago, we were at an outdoor event where we brought picnic blankets and sat on a hillside. There were people of all ages, from 2-90. There were some older people there that were joking/complaining about not getting up and down like the ‘young people’ and they were referring to people like my family. These were people in their sixties at the most, and there were plenty of people easily in their 70’s and 80’s that got up and down just fine. So many people just blame it on being old and that’s simply not true. It’s more of a lifestyle choice. You’re never too old to incorporate activity. Remember, what you do – or don’t do – now, will have an effect on how you feel in the future. There, my rant is over. 😉
Incorporating exercise into your daily routine offers so many benefits that extend beyond just physical fitness. From improving mental wellness and managing weight to enhancing longevity and fostering social connections, exercise is a powerful tool for achieving a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life. So, find an activity you enjoy, and start your journey towards a more active and vibrant lifestyle. Your body and mind will thank you for it. ❤️
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