Find the Motivation to Exercise
The Health Benefits of Physical Activity, Tips for Exercising Often
Nov 19, 2008
Motivation for exercise does not come easily to everyone, with many people having negative feelings towards physical activity. But exercise is not threatening, and it is not something to be feared. It can do wonders for the body, both physically and psychologically, and the effects of doing no exercise at all are detrimental to general well being and good health.
The Health Benefits of Physical Activity
Regular exercise facilitates weight loss, even if there is no change in dietary habits, (but don’t forget a healthy diet combined with exercise is the most effective way to lose weight) and it helps to prevent the onset of obesity. Obesity is linked to health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and fertility complications.
Exercising increases muscle strength, improves joint suppleness and mobility, encourages the heart and lungs to function more efficiently, develops stamina, and improves balance and coordination. These things are important for maintaining mobility and independence throughout life and into old age, for being able to live a full life, and for avoiding disabilities that are associated with getting older.
Exercise also has a positive effect on mental health, helping to reduce anxiety, depression and stress, boosting self-esteem, and inducing a feeling of general calm and wellbeing.
Exercise has a vital role to play in reducing the risk of diseases that pose a serious risk to health, including coronary heart disease and stroke. It helps to regulate blood pressure, control non-insulin dependent diabetes, lower the risk of some cancers, and prevent osteoporosis (brittle bone disease). Exercise of a weight bearing nature, such as walking or running, helps to preserve bone mass and avoid bone fractures later in life.
Tips for Exercising More Often
It is unnecessary to do sports that are not enjoyable in order to gain the health benefits from exercise. Being physically active should be a way of life. Whenever there is an opportunity to squeeze in some exercise into the day, take it. For example, one of the simplest and most effective things most people can do is to walk more often and more briskly, instead of using the car or bus. Take the stairs instead of the lift or escalator, do the housework more vigorously, or do some gardening.
There are many fun, recreational activities which improve health and fitness, and because they are fun and sociable, they don’t feel like a chore. For example, cycling, dancing, yoga, ice skating, tennis, badminton, swimming, and other water sports such as snorkelling are all enjoyable and can be done with friends and family. Don’t worry about not being the ‘sporty’ type, just be a bit open minded about what activities might be motivating and appealing.
When struggling to find the motivation to do some exercise, remember that exercising doesn’t have to be difficult and the benefits of doing it far outweigh the costs of doing none at all. If taking up exercise for the first time, some muscle soreness may be experienced. Don't be discouraged by this, it is perfectly normal, and is nothing to worry about.
Resources:
- Bupa. “Physical Activity.” (Accessed 5th October 2009)
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