The 3 reasons you should exercise, at any age

One of the primary reasons we exercise is to lose weight.  But what if you have already achieved your desired weight goals (as if that is ever possible)? Not surprisingly it does not mean that you should abandon moderate exercise, though we may want to.  Moderate exercise – just a few minutes a day, a few hours per week - can bring tangible results.

Here are the most common reasons to exercise, regardless of your weight or your age.

·         SLEEP BETTER, STAY AWAKE BETTER

You, of course, need to follow, a good sleep hygiene that includes – but not limited to - being in a good mood before bed, quiet, etc., to get the desired results, but exercise helps. Exercise helps you get a good night’s rest because it increases the growth hormone associated with sleep.  Physical activity also helps you fall asleep faster  (less tossing and turning before you doze off, finally) and longer.  Even better, you are less likely to need sleep during the day, once you include moderate physical activity as part of your daily routine.

·         LESS SICKNESS

Performing moderate to intense activity the majority (if not all) of the days of the week lessens your risk of many maladies associated with heart disease.  But that’s not all: exercise helps you lower your blood pressure; it also helps your balance and helps with walking problems.  It also increases the level of good cholesterol and decreases the risk of bacterial infections. Additionally, mild exertion teaches your body to use oxygen more efficiently and softens your heart and blood vessels, making them more pliable and less stiff.  It also helps speed up the emptying of your intestines.

·         MAKES YOU SMARTER

Not only does exercise reduce the risk of having dementia, but researchers have also found that exercise done after learning something new helps with memory association, as well as often preventing memory lapses.  Also, the risk of depression diminishes with regular exercise.

All of these reasons should be enough to get you off your couch and begin a routine that includes a brisk walk, gardening, strength building and other common forms of exercise.

As always, before starting any exercise program, check with your medical professional to make sure the activity is appropriate.  Make sure to ask – for each type of activity you choose – the prescribed level of intensity and the duration.  Too much of a good thing can be even more hazardous than too little.

Share with us your favorite form of exercise (and, if you wish, the results) at www.MatureAging.com, and we may share it in our next edition.

Till next time,

Josh