Why Exercise Isn’t Just About Losing Weight
Do you go to the gym and wonder why “skinny” people are there? A shockingly abundant number of people believe that the primary function of exercise is weight loss, and that if these people are thin they don’t need to exercise. But being thin doesn’t mean that you’re fit and healthy—there are many reasons why you should exercise beyond losing weight.
Stay Healthy
Even if you’re at your ideal weight goal and are healthy, exercise can help keep you that way. Exercising regularly very important, especially as you get older; it helps keep your body flexible and your bones strong which helps prevent diseases like osteoporosis and diabetes. Exercise will also help your body function better in other areas such as your digestive system.
Improve Your Mental Health
Exercise doesn’t only help keep your body healthy—it also helps keep your mind sharp. For example, exercising can prevent fatigue, which in turn can alleviate the symptoms of depression and stress. People with depression who exercised regularly reported experiencing improved symptoms and feelings of well-being.
Relieve Pain
Exercise can also help relieve pain. When you exercise your body releases endorphins, a group of hormones that help relieve pain and give you that “runner’s high.” For aches and pains due to surgery recovery or arthritis, getting in some exercise will help you feel better.
Sleep Better
Getting quality sleep at night is also important for your overall health. It can help you improve your memory and maintain a healthy weight in addition to other benefits. If you experience trouble falling asleep at night, exercise can help. While the exact reason why exercise helps you get to sleep at night is unknown, studies have shown that moderate exercise reduces stress and depressive symptoms, which in turn may promote sleep.