Just for the Health of it: Exercise

Exercise can be synonymous with a series of dirty words. Hard work and sweaty are just two of them. It’s something we all tell ourselves we need to do, but then life interrupts, or we just don’t feel the motivation. Be it work, school, family events – it seems something always interferes with getting more exercise.

Experts agree that exercise is a great way to boost your health and feel better, both physically and mentally. Regular workouts release feel-good endorphins that enhance your sense of well-being. Exercise also helps take your mind off worries, which interrupt the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression and anxiety.

For most healthy adults, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity a week, or a combination of both. If you’re not into regimented routines, there are many ways to get your workout in without one. Try these options:

  1. Park the farthest spot away from your job or when running errands and always take the stairs
  2. When you’re walking, hold your stomach muscles in for the duration
  3. Wall sit during meetings or while watching TV
  4. Take up a team sport with friends: golf league, softball team or walking club

Need a reason stronger than the well-being and positive mental health? Check out these benefits.

Weight loss: Exercise burns calories, which enable you to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Health conditions: Regular workouts can help battle heart disease, lower blood pressure and boost production of “good” cholesterol. It also helps prevent stroke, manages type 2 diabetes, many types of cancer and arthritis.

Boost your energy level: Regular physical activity improves your muscle strength and increases endurance by delivering oxygen and nutrients to your tissues. This improves your cardiovascular system, giving you more energy for activities you enjoy.

For the fun of it: Yes, working out can be enjoyable. You can unwind while enjoying the outdoors. Workouts with family or friends can help deepen social connections. 

The bottom line is any type of activity will help. Be sure to check with your doctor before you begin a new exercise plan, especially if you have been inactive for any period of time.

Do it for the health of it.

This website is for a Health Center Program grantee under 42. U.S.C. 254b, and a deemed Public Health Service employee under 42 U.S.C. 233 (g) – (n). This organization is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant #H80CS00689 titled Health Center Cluster for $7,161,610 with about 88% funded with nongovernmental sources. This information or content and conclusions are those of Great Lakes Bay Health Centers and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government. We are an equal opportunity provider and employer. GLBHC participates in the Federal program 340B Drug Pricing Program. All GLBHC patients may exercise his or her freedom to choose a pharmacy provider.

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