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Health & Wellness / Lifestyle

Why Should I Exercise?

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Exercise and physical activity are important for living a healthy, balanced life.  Exercise give you endorphins, which make you happy. Elle Woods said it best in Legally Blonde:

exercise gives you endorphins.  Endorphins make you happy.  Elle Woods Legally blond exercise endorphins quote.

Top 5 Benefits of Exercise

Here are just a few of the top reasons you should start an exercise program (and stick with it), according to the Mayo Clinic. 1

  1. Increases energy and reduces risk of depression, anxiety and stress
  2. Improves quality of sleep
  3. Helps control weight
  4. Decreases inflammation
  5. Improves mental clarity
exercise, walking, hiking, physical activity, healthy living

Where Do I Start?

Sometimes it can be hard to know where to start with an exercise program. There are so many different options! Remember, people are different and what some people love, doesn’t work for others.  I have friends who are avid runners, but I have found that it’s not for me.  Some people prefer to work out and sweat in a class.  I prefer to work out from the comfort of my own living room.  Try things out and see what you love.  Once you find what works for you, keep going!  If you enjoy what you are doing, you will be more likely to stick with it. And if you find yourself getting bored, trying something different and mix it up. The main thing is to just get started.

How To Stay Consistent

Having trouble staying consistent with an exercise program?  Find an accountability partner or keep track on a goal tracker or fitness app. 

Record each time you exercise and how you feel.  Check in with yourself once/week.  What is working for you and what isn’t?  Reward your good progress.  If you know you are motivated by rewards, create a goal for yourself.  (Example – if I complete this 21-day fix program, I will buy myself a new pair of skinny jeans when I am done).

workout from home, exercise from home, home workout

Exercises to Try to Keep Your Routine Varied

BarreBike Ride
Cardio WorkoutDancing
High-Intensity Interval TrainingJumping Rope
KickboxingPilates
RunningSwimming
Tai ChiWalking
Weight LiftingYoga

Final Thoughts

We all know that exercise and being physically active is important for our bodies.  Sometimes it is easier said than done.  Try a variety of different exercises to see what you love.  When you find what you love, stick with it.  If you are having trouble staying consistent, get an accountability partner or make a goal for yourself.

Let me know what your favorite ways to stay active are!  Do you prefer to go on long walks?  Or do you feel best in a class doing high-intensity cardio?  How do you keep motivated?  Let me know in the comments!

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Note:
Consult your physician and follow all safety instructions before beginning any exercise program.

References:

  1. Mayo Clinic
Further Reading

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