Health Benefits of Aerobic Exercise
Need inspiration to start aerobic exercise? Explore some of the immediate health benefits associated with aerobic exercise and get motivated to reap the rewards:
1. Boosts energy. The next time you’re falling asleep at your desk, go out and take a brisk 10 to 15 minute walk. Chances are that you’ll feel refreshed and energized when you return. You feel like your energy level is really surging. Your brain releases feel-good chemicals called endorphins, the same ones that, in excess, create the “runner’s high” that marathon runners often experience.
2. Boosts metabolism. Aerobic exercise burns a lot of calories and elevates metabolism thus helping to control weight.
3. Reduces stress. Studies show that exercise can reduce stress and promote relaxation. In fact, aerobic exercise is just as effective as psychotherapy at treating mild depression.
4. Improves your sexual performance. Exercise may give your libido a turbo-boost. Experts say that aerobic exercise reduces stress. When we’re more relaxed, we’re often more interested in having sex. Exercise also makes us feel better about our body. The more attractive we feel, the friskier we usually are. Exercise has also been found to boost the levels of the hormone responsible for sex drive in men, and that effect may be similar in women.
5. Regular aerobic exercise helps prevent heart disease by improving several risk factors: It lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, controls weight, reduces stress, and improves cardiovascular fitness. Even people who already have heart disease can lower their risk of having a heart attack by exercising.
6. Reduces risk of developing some cancers, including breast, colon, prostate and endometrial cancer.
7. Significantly reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and lowers blood sugar levels if you have diabetes. Keeping blood sugar within target range can help you avoid long-term complications of diabetes, such as kidney failure or heart disease.
8. Regular exercise cuts your stroke risk in half.
11. Exercise, especially walking, can ease arthritis pain and reduce risk of osteoporosis.
12. Manages your weight. Combined with a healthy diet, aerobic exercise can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
13. Wards off viral illnesses. Aerobic exercise activates your immune system. This leaves you less susceptible to minor viral illnesses, such as colds and flu.
14. Increases your stamina and reduces fatigue.
Now you are aware of the health benefits of aerobic exercise. Let them inspire you to seek a higher level of aerobic fitness. Live longer, stay healthier and feel great with just 30 minutes a day.