Benefits of Exercise More Than Just Weight Loss

  • Published
  • By Marilyn Leggett, RN
  • Civilian Health Promotion Services
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  One of the first thoughts people have when they hear the word "exercise" is often weight loss. Exercise is vital for healthy weight loss and weight maintenance along with proper nutritional choices and portion control.

Many individuals equate exercise with the required physical education classes taken during their school-age years, but it's also important to remember that exercise was also a type of physical activity that used to be called "play." Ultimately exercise is as fun or as boring as it is perceived to be; but knowing the benefits to be gained, consider getting back in the swing or bumping up current levels of exercise.

According to the Wellness Councils of America, additional benefits of exercise include improved appearance through a trim body, toned muscles and improved posture. Complexions benefit from the improved circulation, also. Exercise helps build strong bones, muscles and joints which help the body respond to daily demands. A regular exercise program increase energy and endurance, with improvements gained physically, mentally, and emotionally. Exercise aids movement and, years from now, will aid in maintaining mobility and independence. Exercise can help treat or prevent many diseases such as stroke, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, cancer and osteoporosis.

While exercising burns calories, it also tunes up metabolism so that individuals use nutrients more effectively over time. Improved feelings of well-being result from regular exercise along with a more positive outlook and improved mood. Exercise is also an effective means to burn off feelings of stress or frustration and both physical and mental tasks are improved. Exercise improves reflexes, reaction time and ability to process information.

Walking or running, swimming, exercise classes, dancing, weight or resistance training, and videos are just a few of the ways to engage in exercise. A variety of these and other activities are available through the fitness and health and wellness centers on base with ready accessibility.

Anyone with a medical condition or who has not exercised in a while should check with a physician before starting an exercise program. In fact, it's not a bad idea for anyone to check with a physician before making lifestyle changes just to be safe.
Remember it is best to start exercising slowly and build gradually based on each person's abilities; too much exercise or overtraining can be just as problematic. Ask a friend or coworker about getting started or consider a few sessions with a personal trainer or attend some classes for ideas and basic information.

For more information check out the Coaches' Corner on www.afmcwellness.com; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has extensive information, even instructional videos, at www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/everyone/guidelines/.
There are many rewards while losing pounds, inches and fatigue with regular exercise, not to mention feeling great about your self--the best reward of all.