Exercise is an essential part of our daily routine. A little bit of exercise every day can make a significant impact on our overall health and well-being. In this blog post, we'll be discussing the outcomes of exercising a little every day, and why it's crucial to include it in your daily routine.
Improved Cardiovascular Health: Regular exercise is known to boost your cardiovascular health. It strengthens your heart and increases its efficiency, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke (1). As per a study conducted by the American Heart Association, exercise can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve overall heart health (2).
Better Mental Health: Exercise has been proven to have a positive impact on mental health. According to a study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, exercise can improve symptoms of depression and anxiety, reduce stress levels, and boost self-esteem (3). Regular exercise can also improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing neurological disorders like dementia (4).
Weight Management: Exercise is a crucial factor in maintaining a healthy weight. Regular physical activity helps burn calories, build muscle, and reduce body fat (5). A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that incorporating exercise into your daily routine can help control your weight, even if you don't change your diet (6).
Increased Energy: Regular exercise can increase energy levels, making you feel more alert and awake. A study published in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness showed that regular physical activity can improve overall energy levels and reduce fatigue (7).
Better Sleep: Exercise has been linked to better sleep quality. According to a study published in the Journal of Sleep Research, physical activity can improve the quantity and quality of sleep, reducing the risk of sleep disorders (8).
In conclusion, exercising a little every day can have a profound impact on our overall health and well-being. It can improve cardiovascular health, mental health, weight management, energy levels, and sleep quality. Incorporating exercise into your daily routine can be as simple as going for a walk, doing yoga, or taking a short run. It's essential to consult with a doctor before starting any exercise program, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.
References:
American Heart Association. (2021). Exercise and Physical Activity. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults
American Heart Association. (2021). Exercise and Cardiovascular Health. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/exercise-and-cardiovascular-health
Smits, J.A., et al. (2008). Exercise for Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 31(3), pp. 781-798.
van Praag, H. (2008). Exercise and the Brain: Something to Chew On. Trends in Neurosciences, 31(3), pp. 181-185.
American College of Sports Medicine. (2021). The Benefits of Physical Activity. https://www.acsm.org/docs/default-source/brochures/the-benefits-of-physical-activity.pdf
Hill, J.O. & Wyatt, H.R. (2010). Energy Balance and Obesity. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 92(1), pp. 271-274.
Marques, E.A., et al. (2012