Conclusions on Why You Should Exercise

Exercise is generally acknowledged to be important for weight control, strengthening bones and muscles and increased stamina. Nevertheless, the benefits of exercise transcend these common facts to many other aspects of health and wellness. Other reasons why you should exercise include a reduced the risk of disease, increased brain health, improved energy, sleep and sex and, in the end, a longer life.

Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Exercise can be imperative in reducing your chance of developing cardiovascular disease, which includes atherosclerosis and hypertension. Physical activity increase the body's production of high-density lipoprotein and decreases triglycerides. Consequently, the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases decreases as your blood pressure lowers and cholesterol levels improve. Simultaneously, you will decrease the chances of having a stroke or heart attack as your blood flow and heart begin to work more efficiently.

Prevention of Diabetes

Effect of Exercise on Sex Drive

Learn More

Additionally, exercise reduces the chance of developing diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Regular exercise not only prevents diabetes through weight control, but also through muscle activity, according to Harvard Medical School. Muscles that are worked regularly maintain receptiveness to insulin so that blood sugar is more effectively absorbed. As a result, exercise can both prevent and decrease the effects of diabetes, as a diabetic can also control their blood sugar with exercise.

Reduced Risk of Cancer Development and Reoccurance

Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of developing cancers, including breast, colon, endometrial and lung cancer, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Moreover, cancer survivors and those undergoing cancer treatment also benefit from exercise. Cancer survivors who exercise experience a greater quality of life, as well as lower the chance of reoccurance, according to the National Cancer Institute, while the American College of Sports Medicine indicates that exercise during cancer treatment decreases fatigue and increases strength.

Improved Brain Function

Exercise Facts for Kids

Learn More

According to the American Council on Exercise, physical activity affects the brain through stimulation of brain-pleasing neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and endorphins. Consequently, individuals that exercise tend to be less stressed and anxious and have a happier outlook. Additionally, symptoms of depression can be alleviated through regular exercise. Benefits for the brain also occur through improved cognitive functioning, as exercise helps improve thinking and learning. According to Harvard Medical School, the onset and development of certain cognitive impairments, such as dementia, can be reduced by exercise.

Energy, Sleep and Sex

Regular exercise helps your body function more efficiently through improved oxygen consumption, effective delivery of nutrients and a healthy cardiovascular system, resulting in increased energy, says MayoClinic.com. At the same time, individuals who exercise fall asleep more quickly and achieve a higher quality of sleep than those who do not exercise. Consequently, individuals begin to look and feel better -- and, by feeling and looking better through regular exercise, your sex life can be improved. Additionally, women who exercise regularly may experience greater arousal, while men maintain better erectile function.

Live Longer

The cumulative benefits of exercise add up to the most important conclusion of all: a longer life. According to the CDC, individuals that engage in seven hours of physical activity a week decrease the chances of dying early by 40 percent. However, seven hours a week is not the requirement to a long life, as exercising for at least 30 minutes a day may also decrease the chances of premature death. Any amount of exercise performed can improve the length and quality of your life.