Fitness Benefits

What's Your Excuse for not reaching your health, fitness, or performance goals?

The Importance and Benefits of Physical Activity

It has been firmly established that individuals who engage in some form of physical activity either by lifestyle or occupation, are likely to live longer and healthier lives. Research shows that even moderate caloric expenditure from physical activity has a significant impact on longevity. A physically active person who possesses risk factors like hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, and even a smoking habit can derive significant gains from incorporating regular physical activity into his/her daily activities.

Regular physical activity is also likely to help modify a number of risk factors. As an adjunct to weight loss, exercise is likely to help you stay on a diet and lose weight. Additionally, regular exercise is associated with reductions in blood pressure, improved glucose regulation, promotion of better lipid profiles and stronger, denser bones.

(Reprinted with permission of the American College of Sports Medicine {ACSM}, Personal Trainer brochure, 2003. ACSM is the leading authority organization in the exercise science and sports medicine related fields.)

Health Benefits of Regular Exercise and Physical Activity

	Reduce the risk of premature death
	Reduce the risk of developing and/or dying from heart disease
	Reduce high blood pressure or the risk of developing high blood pressure
	Reduce high cholesterol or the risk of developing high cholesterol
	Reduce the risk of developing colon cancer and breast cancer
	Reduce the risk of developing diabetes
	Reduce or maintain body weight or body fat
	Build and maintain healthy muscles, bones, and joints
	Reduce depression and anxiety
	Improve psychological well-being
	Enhanced work, recreation, and sport performance

Benefits of Regular Exercise on the Aging Process and Functional Capacity

	Increase your level of muscular strength
	Increase your stamina and ability to do continuous work
	Increase or maintain your bone mineral density to prevent osteoporosis
	Increase muscular endurance
	Help you maintain your resting metabolic rate to prevent weight gain
	Provide protection against injury
	Maintain or improve joint integrity
	Help you to maintain an independent lifestyle
	Improves your balance and coordination
	Reduce the risk of developing colon cancer
	Reduce the risk of developing breast cancer

Benefits of Exercise for Mental Health and Well-Being

	Reduce your level of anxiety
	Help you manage stress more effectively
	Improve your positive self-esteem and confidence
	Help alleviate depression
	Improve your appearance
	Help you relax
	Combat the likelihood of many degenerative problems
	Improve your overall quality of life
	Teach you about goal-setting and dedication
	Can assists in efforts to stop smoking
	Help to relieve and prevent migraine headache attacks
	Can help you sleep more restfully
	Help improve your immune system