Does getting out of the house for a run first thing in the morning feel like a chore? You’re not alone. However, exercise is an investment you make not just for your body and health but also your mood, well-being, and mental health. It has tons of great benefits. Once you make exercise a habit, you will get addicted to how it makes you feel. Trust us, it beats growing roots on the couch, by a mile. Here are four reasons to get started today.
It Makes You Feel Happy
Exercise is a great mood booster and has been known to help manage conditions like depression and anxiety. It stimulates the part of your brain that regulates stress. It also increases the brain’s sensitivity to serotonin and norepinephrine which eases depression. Besides, the endorphin rush is real. Endorphins are hormones that increase positive feelings. After a good sweat session, you’ll really feel like you can take on the world.
It Helps You Lose Weight
There are all sorts of body types out there and being big is nothing to be ashamed of. However, too much weight can cause complications for you later on. The human body spends energy in three ways: exercising, digesting food and maintaining body functions like your heartbeat and breathing. When you exercise, your metabolic rate increases and you burn more energy and therefore calories. Once you make a habit of regular exercise you will not only lose fat, you’ll build muscle which will help you keep the weight off.
It Helps Muscle And Bone Health
Why do you need strong muscles? As you get older, you lose muscle mass and function making you more prone to injury and putting you at risk for disability. Exercise releases hormones that promote the ability of your muscles to absorb amino acids. This helps them grow and reduces their breakdown. Exercise also boosts bone health and reduces your risk of osteoporosis.
It Boosts Your Energy
There’s a reason that people who work out always look like they can bounce off walls. Exercise significantly increases your energy levels. In fact, it is the most recommended treatment for people with chronic fatigue syndrome. If you suffer from progressive illnesses like cancer, HIV/AIDS and multiple sclerosis, exercise helps you manage your symptoms by increasing your energy levels.