Benefits of Regular Activity

Health Benefits you can’t Ignore!

The benefits of exercise have been known since antiquity. Marcus Cicero (a Roman philosopher), around 65 BC, stated: “It is exercise alone that supports the spirits, and keeps the mind in vigor.” And the benefits of exercise are yours for the taking, regardless of your age, sex or physical ability

Benefit		Effect of Health
Reduces the risk of premature death		Active people live longer with a better quality of life
Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD)		Strengthens the heart, cardiovascular system and respiratory system to help fight CVD
Decreases resting heart rate, keeps resting blood pressure normal and improves heart efficiency		Lessens the stress on the walls of veins and arteries, reduces risk of coronary event or stroke
Decreases body fat		Reduces risk of major diseases such as CVD and diabetes, helps regulate blood sugar levels
Increases HDL (good) cholesterol, decreases LDL (bad) cholesterol		Reduces risk of CVD and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
Promotes joint stability		Increases strength of all connective tissue, decreasing susceptibility to injury
Increases muscular strength and muscle mass		Improves ability to perform daily activities with less effort, improves physique and the body burns more calories at rest and during exercise to sustain increased muscle
Strengthens bones		Helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis and reduces the chance of injury and broken bones
Increases resting metabolism		More calories are required by the body at rest, which helps with weight management
Improves core strength		Develops strong abdominals and back muscles for better posture and less chance of back pain
Improves balance, coordination and agility		All movements in daily life become easier and safer when the body has better control
Improves body image and self esteem		Exercisers experience improved mental health and self image
Reduces depression and anxiety		An improved outlook on life makes all activities more enjoyable
Assists in stress management		Everyday life becomes more enjoyable because the person has a positive way to deal with stress