The Top 10 Benefits of Exercise
Exercise is true self care of the physical body. Incorporating some type of exercise into your daily and weekly routines will increase the quality of your life. True fitness is about health, energy and feeling good. The benefits of exercise and increased fitness levels will be individual - we are all unique, and exercise will benefit each of differently. The following list contains general benefits for your overall health and wellness.

1. Increased Flexibility and Motion
We were made to move. Physiologically all cells and tissues require nourishment based on the circulating fluids and nutrients. When we are in motion the muscle contraction aids our circulation increasing the life force to all our tissues. All of our joints and muscles are meant to move and maintain flexibility. Inactivity leads to tightness, imbalances, and degenerative changes. Flexibility is tied to our vitality and zest for life.

2. Increased Energy and Stamina
Motion brings more nutrition and life force to all of our cells. This revitalizes us. The resulting increase in energy allows us to do more in all areas of our lives. Even when we are tired, performing some moderate level of exercise, will result in an immediate increase in our energy levels. Over time, these increases in energy lead to more stamina, which in turn increases our ability to produce more results in many areas of our lives.

3. Balance
Not all exercise is created equally. Some focus purely on physical movement, while others incorporate physical, mental and even spiritual components. Examples of exercise that incorporate all elements within them are Yoga and Tai Chi. Exercise enables us to be much more aware of our physical balance - our muscular balance side to side, as well as our tone. Working with people who can measure your muscle tone and balance will help you to develop a program that is specific to you. Better balance allows our body to function properly and helps prevent acute injuries and long term chronic overuse injuries.

4. Improved Appetite
Food is our fuel. As we begin to exercise and/or improve our fitness levels we become more aware of the effects of food on our bodies and our fitness. We see an overall increase in our metabolic rate, which helps us burn our food/fuel better. With activity, we utilize fat, carbohydrates and proteins from our food more efficiently. We have, therefore, fewer cravings for low-quality foods and less fluctuations in blood sugar levels. This has distinct health benefits. In general with activity/exercise we become more health conscious and have a desire to eat better quality food.

5. Weight Maintenance or Weight Loss
A combination of increased metabolic rate from our exercise, and our body's desire to eat better quality food, enable us to directly affect our weight and appearance. If we are above our body's natural weight point, we will therefore begin to lose weight. If we are at our natural weight we will maintain our weight while seeing a shift to more lean mass with consistent exercise. These qualities, over time, enhance muscle tone and definition. Muscle weighs more than fat - pay attention to your body composition as opposed the value on your scale.

6. Health Benefits
The heart is the body's pump to circulate our blood. Exercise has definite cardiovascular benefits. A stronger heart beat and muscle contraction around the arteries and veins leads to improved circulation - this can help control blood pressure. Our bones are the framework for our physical selves. Resistance training and weight-bearing exercise will improve the intake of minerals to the bones. Research shows bone density can be maintained and/or improved with exercise.

7. Increased Sense of Well Being
Endorphins are released during and after exercise. This is our bodies "feel good" chemistry. Endorphins are morphine-like substances secreted in the pituitary gland to control pain and pleasure. Some people refer to the "runners high", which is one feeling that is a result of the endorphin release. These endorphins increase your overall feeling of harmony and inner peace. This enables us to do more in life and feel better about ourselves.

8. Fitness is Fun
There is a definite social and fun component to exercise. We can meet new people, find a facility to work out in that has like-minded people, or buddy up with someone to keep us committed. Exercise also enhances our energy and vitality. This can lead to more joy, positive outlook, and fun in life. We often become more childlike again with some forms of exercise and movement. Find and do things that you enjoy, and that make you more alive.

9. Stress Reduction
Endorphins, which increase your sense of well being, also reduce your anxiety and stress levels. Exercise is a physical outlet for our built up tensions, and allows us to become more calm and relaxed. Unfortunately, exercise is often the last thing on someone's mind when they are under pressure or leading chaotic lives. Yet by making time to incorporate physical exercise into your routine, you will be better able to handle the mental and emotional stresses that you are under.

10. Longevity
Exercise highlights both anabolism and catabolism in the body - this is building and destroying of cells and tissues. This is how muscle and new tissue are formed. By exercising we continue this natural process, and if we incorporate better eating and nutrition while exercising we are building stronger tissues over time. This slows the actual aging process. Exercise also allows us to stay more involved in life activities as we age. The more toned and fit we are the better able to continue many of our normal daily activities. The tone of your quadriceps muscle is what enables you to walk up stairs, get up from a chair, and get up off the toilet seat. This is imperative to maintain our dignity and our independence.


Copyright 1999 WowCoach ? All rights reserved Written by: Dr. Janice Hughes B.Sc., M.Sc., D.C. - Dr. Hughes is a Chiropractor, Life Coach, Author and Key Note Speaker. She works with individuals to create a high level of health and wellness in their personal and professional lives. Dr. Paul Ziemer B.Sc., D.C. - Dr. Ziemer is a Chiropractor and Wellness Coach. A confirmed lifelong student of human health, he continues to investigate pathways for patients and clients to regain or optimize their health. Janicke Ziemer - Ms. Ziemer is a leader in the fitness industry. She works as a Personal Trainer, Fitness Instructor and Guest Speaker in the fitness field. She is living proof that fitness is the foundation to total health and happiness.