Most everyone will agree that exercise is important, whether they actually put that belief into practice or not. But why is it important? We live in an era of climbing obesity rates. Perhaps a better understanding of exactly why exercise is important may help convince more people to begin an exercise routine.

No matter how old we are, our bodies benefit from physical activity. Numerous studies have shown that exercise – even in moderate amounts – can make us more flexible and strong, reduce our risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes, and minimize the symptoms of other diseases, such as arthritis.

Increased physical activity can lead to a longer life and improved health. Exercise builds strength, gives you more energy and can reduce stress. It is also a good way to curb your appetite and burn calories. Exercises that increase your heart rate and move large muscles – legs and arms – are best. Choose an activity that you enjoy and that you can start slowly and increase gradually so you will stick to it.

Physical activity helps to increase endorphins, the neurotransmitters responsible for elevating your mood. Increasing self-confidence with regular exercise can help lower the symptoms of mild depression and anxiety. AS you reduce stress and tension through regular exercise, you may find that your energy and optimism increase, and it is easier to remain clear and calm through life’s little annoyances.

How much should you exercise and how do you structure an exercise routine? You should start by exercising 3 or 4 times a week for 20 minutes or more. Gradually build up to 30 minutes or more 4 to 6 times a week. You should exercise vigorously enough to increase your heart rate and breathing. Aim to increase your exercise intensity and duration by about 10% per week. Consulting with your physician to determine your suitability to your chosen activity and your target heart rate is strongly recommended.

To get the most health benefits, your workout should ideally include warming up and stretching for several minutes prior to exercise, and then a 2 to 3 minute cooling down period after you have concluded your exercise routine.

Should you exercise? Consider these benefits and then decide:

*Exercise improves sleep
*Exercise helps you lose weight
*Walking just 30 minutes a day 5 days a week can increase life
span
*Exercise can decrease the risk of breast and colon cancer
*Exercise can improve bone density
*Aerobic exercise can decrease the symptoms of mild to
moderate depression
*Aerobic exercise can reduce the risk of catching a cold
*Exercise can reverse age-related loss of brain tissue
*Exercise can cut your risk of developing heart disease by
50%