The Health Benefits of Exercise

Most of us are aware that we should exercise. However, there's a big difference between knowing that we should do something and actually mustering up the motivation to do it. If you're one of the people who feel a vague obligation to go to the gym but have trouble actually following through on that goal, rest assured that you're not alone. 

Often, this difficulty in cultivating a regular exercise habit stems from not having a concrete idea of what you're actually gaining from going to the gym. While most people know that exercising is good for them, they may not be aware of the extensive benefits of maintaining a regular exercise habit, both in the short and long term.

Next time you find yourself debating whether to go to the gym, consider the following health benefits of exercise—they might just give you the extra boost you need to get out the door. 

Exercise Fights Disease

Perhaps the most well-known health benefit of exercise is its power to combat cardiovascular disease, including lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart attacks, and improving the body's use and uptake of oxygen. In addition, exercise can help stave off a number of other serious illnesses such as diabetes, stroke, and even cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, more physical activity is correlated with lower risk of multiple different types of cancers, including breast, prostate, colon, and endometrium. 

Even in the short term, a little exercise can potentially go a long way toward keeping you from getting sick. Although the exact effect of exercise on the body's immune system is still being studied, some experts believe that exercising can boost immune function by helping to expel bacteria from the lungs, reducing inflammation, and mobilizing disease-fighting cells. 

Exercise Keeps Your Body Strong

As people age, it's not uncommon for them to experience reduced muscle mass and bone density, as well as stiffness in their joints. Another of the health benefits of exercise is that it helps maintain strength and mobility by slowing the loss of bone density and muscle mass. 

This, in turn, can have significant positive effects on individuals' quality of life as they age. For example, people who keep their bones and muscles healthy through regular exercise tend to be stronger, more flexible, and have better balance. This can allow them to live independently for longer because they are at a lower risk of falling and are less likely to need help moving around. Moreover, even if these individuals do experience a fall, they are less likely to suffer severe injury, such as a hip fracture. 

On top of that, for people affected by arthritis, exercise can help manage the symptoms of arthritis by reducing swelling and inflammation and helping to reduce stiffness. 

Exercise Improves Mental Health

In addition to keeping your body healthy, exercise can benefit your mind, too. Exercise has been proven to be effective for some people in treating and/or managing depression and anxiety. On a chemical level, exercising reduces the body's level of cortisol, “the stress hormone.” At the same time, it stimulates the production of endorphins, which are known as feel-good hormones that also act as natural painkillers. Together, this results in feelings of relaxation and reduced stress in the moment. 

On a more long-term scale, exercise can also help preserve brain function and cognitive health. Studies have shown that people who exercise regularly are at a reduced risk for dementia. Even people who are already affected by a mild cognitive impairment may see an improvement in memory and thinking. 

At the very least, exercising often provides a welcome mental distraction, a change of scene, or a chance to socialize—all of which can help with improving your mood. And even failing all of that, you can usually count on one more benefit of exercising: a good night's sleep after your workout. 

If you're ready to start an exercise habit, or perhaps revive an existing one, consider joining the Siegel JCC. The J is a vibrant, inclusive community center with offerings for members of all ages, backgrounds, and faiths. Members enjoy access to our well-equipped fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and group exercise classes, while children and teens benefit from a variety of programs from preschool and early childhood care to after-school care and summer camp. Whatever you're looking for, we've got something for you. Contact us today to discuss joining with a membership, or consider donating to support our programs!