It’s cliche to say exercise is medicine.

But if they could put it in a pill form, there’d be a handful of greedy CEOs making billions off of the greatest pharmaceutical of all time.

The fact that it’s not easy to make money off of is why it’s not promoted as much as pills in our society.

But I digress….

Here’s a list of some of the scientifically proven benefits of exercise.

Benefits of Exercise

Cardiovascular Health:

Stronger Heart: Exercise strengthens the heart muscle, allowing it to pump more blood with each beat.
Improved Circulation: It enhances blood flow throughout the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients more efficiently.
Lower Blood Pressure: Regular activity can help lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Improved Cholesterol Levels: Exercise can increase "good" HDL cholesterol and decrease "bad" LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases: This includes coronary artery disease, heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.

Metabolic Health:

Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Exercise helps your body use insulin more effectively, which is crucial for blood sugar control.
Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Regular physical activity is a cornerstone in preventing and managing type 2 diabetes.
Weight Management: Exercise helps burn calories, increase metabolism, and build muscle mass, aiding in weight loss or maintenance.
Reduced Risk of Metabolic Syndrome: This cluster of conditions (high blood pressure, high blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and excess abdominal fat) is less likely with regular exercise.

Musculoskeletal Health:

Stronger Muscles: Exercise builds and maintains muscle mass and strength, improving overall physical function.
Stronger Bones: Weight-bearing exercises help increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Improved Flexibility and Mobility: Regular movement enhances joint range of motion and reduces stiffness.
Reduced Risk of Falls: Improved strength and balance contribute to a lower risk of falls, especially in older adults.
Reduced Risk of Certain Musculoskeletal Conditions: This includes back pain, arthritis, and fractures.

Mental and Cognitive Health:

Improved Mood: Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects and can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Reduced Stress: Physical activity can help manage stress hormones and provide a healthy outlet for tension.
Improved Sleep Quality: Regular exercise can promote deeper and more restful sleep.
Enhanced Cognitive Function: Exercise has been linked to improved memory, attention, and overall brain health.
Reduced Risk of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Some studies suggest exercise may lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence: Achieving fitness goals can boost self-image and confidence.

Other Benefits:

Improved Immune Function: Moderate exercise can strengthen the immune system.
Increased Energy Levels: Despite expending energy, regular exercise can actually combat fatigue and increase overall energy.
Reduced Risk of Certain Cancers: Studies have linked physical activity to a lower risk of several types of cancer, including colon, breast, and endometrial cancer.
Longer Lifespan: Overall, physically active individuals tend to live longer and have a higher quality of life.

Summary

In my opinion, exercise is one of the best ways to improve your life. It’s easy to add into your life. You get immediate benefit. And the dividends overtime are significant.

Where do you start…?

If you’re new to exercise, start with something as simple as walking. Or take a fun, safe exercise class on youtube or in your community.

If you’re a veteran exerciser, keep exercising and stay injury free. Getting injured and not being able to exercise can cause a lot of problem (just reverse the list above). So getting assessed by a good physical therapist can help prevent this (give us a call).

Don’t get caught up in the information overload. Do you need zone 2 or zone 5? Should you train high reps or heavy weight? Is it better to workout in the AM or PM? The list can go on forever…

But the overall big picture question is….

What kind of exercise do you enjoy and which one will you consistently do?

That is the question that matters most.

So work on developing a better exercise routine. If not for yourself, at least for your loved ones so they won’t be burdened by your degrading health.