Benefits of Exercising!

Fall is here, and the year is almost ending. Many had set out great goals at the beginning of the year, either it is losing weight, setting new weight lifting PR, running consistently, or just going to the gym more frequently. Unfortunately, our lifestyle quickly changed due to covid, and most of us, including myself, find ourselves staying at home or losing motivation to work out. 

What now? 

Fortunately, it's never too late to start or resume exercise! Though we may not be able to go to the gym there are many alternative exercises that can be performed at home or around the community. This is a great time to explore new exercise and new physical activities! From following your favorite youtube workout, trying calisthenics, starting to run, learning how to lift a kettlebell, or learning yoga, our body is made to be adaptable and pliable. 

Benefits of working out

Many may find themselves busier more than ever, since they are working at home now and/or taking care of their family members. But according to ACSM (American College Sports and Medicine), we only need to participate in moderate intensity aerobic physical activity for a minimum of 30 min on five days per week, or vigorous intensity aerobic activity for a minimum of 20 min on three days per week. 

There are multiple health benefits according to research such as: 

  • Prevention of diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension. 

  • Improvement in mood.

  • Improvement with sleep.

  • Increase in muscle strength and endurance.

  • Increase energy level throughout the day.

  • Decrease musculoskeletal pain and stiffness.

  • Help in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression

  • Improve metabolism

  • And MUCH MORE

So don’t stop exercising! Workout with a family member. Workout with your friends over zoom. Go on a run for the first time. Discover exercise videos online. Participate in anything you love to do and keep on moving forward!

Reference:

Warburton DE, Nicol CW, Bredin SS. Health benefits of physical activity: the evidence. CMAJ. 2006;174(6):801-809. doi:10.1503/cmaj.051351

WellnessRoger Sheen