Okay, so everyone knows that exercise is good for you and helps you to get in shape. But you may still be unclear about the specific health benefits of physical activity, and what makes it truly worth it. In this post, we will explore some of the key benefits of exercise, and how it can change—and possibly save—your life.

1. Weight Loss

Perhaps the most well-known and best motivator for exercise is that it is proven to help you to lose weight. Exercise increases your metabolism, helping you to burn more calories and lose weight faster. Additionally, resistance training helps to build muscle, and muscle cells are more efficient at burning calories than fat cells. Both cardio and weight training are excellent methods for shedding fat and building muscle.

2. Increase Energy Levels

While you may think that exercising makes you feel worn out and tired, in the long run, the opposite is true. Working out regularly actually increases energy levels. This is because your cardiovascular system works more efficiently, providing your body the oxygen it needs to do work. This is also true for people with chronic fatigue and illnesses such as cancer and MS.

3. Sleep Better

Ever notice how after a day hiking or playing a sport you sleep like a log? This is because exercise improves sleep quality. Regular exercise can also help with relaxation before bedtime. The energy expenditure from exercising promotes healthy sleep patterns and helps activate recuperative sleep processes. A good workout will help you fall asleep quickly and stay asleep longer.

4. Reduce Risk of Chronic Disease

Regular exercise can help mitigate your risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease. Your daily workout not only helps you keep the extra weight off, it helps to regulate blood pressure and blood fat levels. A sedentary lifestyle, on the other hand, can lead to an increase in belly fat, which is related to type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Exercising daily not only will make you feel stronger and healthier, it may even save your life.

5. Improve Emotional Health

Exercise can be effective for stress relief and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. When you exercise, endorphins are released in your brain, making you feel a burst of positivity and decreasing the perception of pain. If you suffer from anxiety, working out may help you to distract yourself from your fears and make you more conscious of your mental state. The best part is—it doesn’t matter what type of exercise you do. Even a leisurely stroll can improve your mood and emotional well-being.

Exercising regularly is one of the most important things you can do for your health. If you want to start exercising but aren’t sure where to begin, there is a great personal training Greenville SC gym that can help you stay motivated and reach your goals.