5 Not-So-Obvious Benefits of Exercise
Because you already know it’s good for your health.
It’s common knowledge that exercise is good for you. It helps you maintain a healthy weight. It’s good for your heart. It’s good for your mind, too. We know all this and yet, some of us still can’t seem to get motivated. So instead of a traditional “exercise is good for you” blog, we’ve decided to list some not-so-obvious reasons to exercise.
It’s Good for Your Brain.
Yes, we already know that exercise is good for your mental health, but it’s also literally good for your brain’s health, especially when you try new things. Getting out of your comfort zone by taking a Zumba® class when you’re used to riding your bike, or starting weight training when you’ve only ever done the treadmill helps keep your mind nimble. As we know, a brain that is learning and developing new pathways is stronger against threats of Alzheimer’s and dementia than a more staid brain.
You Can Meet New People!
Humans are meant to be social, and exercising can help with that. You don’t need to join a Navy SEAL-style boot camp (although you could if you wanted to!), even just being among other people at the gym is helpful and good for your social life.
And, You Can Avoid Meeting New People!
There is a time and a place for being social, and for you, exercising may not be it. After all, humans also need some downtime. Exercise (think: a long walk, a nice jog, a solitary bike ride) can help you escape the crowd and get some much-needed alone time.
Discover New Music.
Working out is a lot more fun with music. Get out of your musical rut and download some new playlists for the new you.
Get New Clothes!
Inspire yourself by purchasing a few new pieces of clothing or shoes to use while exercising. They’re a great non-food reward for making a healthy choice. Plus, once you start shedding unnecessary pounds, you can have the fun of shopping for a smaller size.
Whatever reason works for you, getting up and getting moving is essential to a happy, healthy life. We at Edgewater Health aren’t as concerned about why you choose to exercise, just that you do. If you are looking for more reasons and/or you’d like some help on the road to your best health, please make an appointment to see our primary care provider, Dr. Nwabara, at (219) 885-4264 or request an appointment online here.
