Exercise has been shown to relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety, and reduce stress. It's also been shown to improve social skills, stimulate the mind and improve self-esteem. Lack of confidence and motivation are just a few reasons why most people don't partake in physical activity. Most people that embark on a weight loss program usually fail to commit. Some problems could be unrealistic expectations, a lack in goal setting skills, negative self talk, and false beliefs regarding exercise and nutrition. Most people aren't educated on the positive benefits of physical activity, and instead relate it to a bad experience. They find it hard not to reflect on past failures, thus increasing their chances of failure.
Exercise can be viewed as a preventative or wellness activity and may prevent physical and emotional conditions, such as stress. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress by removing the by product of the stress response. Which, if left circulating in the body, has the opportunity to create physical illness. The removal of these adrenal hormones allows for the body to return to a state of homeostasis more quickly and reduces the negative physical effects of stress. People who engage in regular physical activity tend to have a more positive outlook due to the mood elevating chemicals that are released in response to exercise, known as endorphins. Exercise can be a healthy outlet for negative emotions such as anger or hostility. The physical release of energy provides an acceptable way of dealing with negative feelings. Feelings of self efficacy and higher self esteem are also promoted, which increases one's ability to cope with high stress levels. Some find that the physical challenges of exercise can be stimulating. By constantly testing one's self, they learn to accept higher levels of stress. Some of the physical benefits of exercise include a decreased risk of heart attack, osteoporosis, reduced blood pressure, diabetes, decreased body fat, risk of cancer, and increased strength and endurance. By exercising regularly and making positive changes in the diet you can lower your bad cholesterol and raise your good cholesterol. The risk for type 2 diabetes can be decreased through making healthier changes in the diet, engaging in physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, having a modest fat intake and consuming sufficient fiber as recommended by the American Diabetes Association. Also, weight-bearing exercise builds and strengthens bones. This can help ward off osteoporosis.
If you're pregnant, physical activity can reduce bloating, swelling, backaches, leg cramps, and other pregnancy related discomforts. It can also improve energy levels, sleep quality, and accelerate post partum weight loss. Women who engage in regular physical activity can nearly maintain their program, with a few moderations. Sedentary women who are just beginning a program during their pregnancy can achieve the many benefits as well through a moderate exercise program. Exercise during pregnancy may help women adopt a more positive attitude and avoid potential depression. They are also more able to tolerate the pains of labor and can recover more quickly after the birth. There is also the increased likelihood of them adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Inactivity itself, is a major risk for coronary artery disease. With exercise the heart becomes stronger and larger so it is able to pump more blood through the body and sustain a maximum level with less strain. With active individuals their heart rate is slower because less effort is needed to pump blood. Regular exercise also helps to keep arteries elastic which ensures blood flow and normal blood pressure. The psychological benefits of regular exercise can be as significant as the physical. People suffering from anxiety or depression may be prescribed exercise. Studies have shown that people suffering from depression who exercised 3 times or more per week for at least 30 minutes, were able to overcome their depression without the use of antidepressant medication. Twenty different types of endorphins have been discovered in the nervous system, and the beta-endorphins secreted during exercise have the most powerful effect. Sometimes described as 'runners high', the release of beta-endorphins reduces pain and stimulates feelings of euphoria. People who regularly exercise also find that they're better able to address daily frustration or disappointment.
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That Can Be Helped With Exercise!!!
