Exercise is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and promoting overall well-being. Regularly engaging in physical activity can improve cardiovascular health, increase muscle strength and flexibility, and promote weight loss. When it comes to mental health, exercise can improve mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and even sharpen cognitive function. And if the here and now was not enough, exercise can even help put you on a good path for long-term health by reducing the risk of certain chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
Most of us have heard a lot of that information before. And it is all good — do not discount it at all. But regular exercise also offers a ton more benefits so let’s look at a few.
1. Builds Self Esteem
Exercise can build self-esteem by increasing physical strength, endurance, and overall fitness, which can lead to improved body image and a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, the endorphins released during exercise help to create a sense of well-being and happiness, and that can boost self-confidence. And when you consistently meet exercise goals, it can provide a sense of accomplishment which promotes a positive self-image.
2. Slows the Effects of Aging
If you want to slow the hands of time and stay feeling younger for longer, take care of your body and work it out. That will help to maintain muscle mass which can otherwise decline with age and affect your ability to perform everyday activities. And for better balance and flexibility — which can reduce the risk of falls and fractures — it is hard to beat a regular workout. Not to mention the immune system boost to help keep you healthy and free of illness.
3. Provides a Buzz
Alright, so, uh, have you ever heard the phrase “runner’s high?” Exercise, especially endurance exercise, has been found to cause a release of endorphins. Endorphins are brain chemicals that make you feel euphoric. A lot of people say they feel like they’re glowing after prolonged physical activity, and it can be very nice!
4. Promotes Creativity
Exercise has been shown to have a positive effect on creativity. Studies have found that regular physical activity improves creative thinking and problem-solving skills because exercise increases blood flow. Additionally, exercise has been found to reduce stress and anxiety, and that can also unburden your creative spirit and allow it to shine!
5. Sharpens the Memory
Want to keep your memory sharp? Exercise. It helps you remember more stuff by increasing the production of neurochemicals like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and norepinephrine. These promote new neuron growth and improve the function of existing neurons in the hippocampus — an area of the brain highly intertwined with memory function. Regular exercise also increases blood flow to the brain, and, along with it, more oxygen and nutrients to promote brain cell health.
Experience All the Benefits of Exercise with Us at Rhapsody Fitness!
Do you want to experience everything regular physical activity has to offer? Rhapsody Fitness offers a variety of equipment, clean and well-maintained facilities, experienced and qualified trainers, and a range of classes that cater to different fitness levels and goals. We have a supportive and inclusive community, and friendly, helpful staff.
If it has been a while since you have been here, it is time for you to come back. And if you have never been here before, we want to see you! Your first class is even on us.
