Do I really need to exercise to be healthy?

As a personal trainer running a private personal training facility, I often get asked the question, “Do I really need to exercise to be healthy?” The answer is a resounding yes. Exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your health, both physical and mental.

Not getting enough physical activity can lead to a variety of diseases and symptoms. These include but are not limited to obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, and even some forms of cancer. Not only that, but a lack of exercise can also lead to symptoms such as fatigue, poor sleep quality, and a weakened immune system.

Regular exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve your cardiovascular health, strengthen your bones and muscles, improve your balance, improve mobility and reduce your risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, exercise can have a positive impact on your mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression and improving your overall mood and self-esteem.

Physical changes to your body can also be seen with regular exercise. These changes include improved muscle tone and definition, increased strength and endurance, and better flexibility and balance. If you look better your most certainly going to feel better. Regular exercise can also improve your posture, which can help prevent back pain and other posture-related issues.

Certain populations may require different amounts and types of exercise. It’s important to find what works best for you as an individual and not try and follow any generic programs. Hiring a personal trainer can help you assess your current fitness levels and tailor a program towards you as an individual. For example, older adults may benefit from lower-impact exercises such as walking or a stationary bike to improve their fitness, in addition to some stability exercises to help with their balance and flexibility, perhaps using more machine based exercises which are externally stable to build and retain muscle mass. Pregnant women may need to modify their exercise routine to ensure the safety of both themselves and their unborn child.

It’s worth noting that our ancestors were less sedentary and more active, without the aid of labour-saving devices that we have today. This means that our bodies were designed to move, and regular exercise is essential for our overall health and wellbeing.

If you’re just starting out with exercise, it’s important to take things slow and start with a routine that is appropriate for your fitness level that you can progress. This might mean starting with a simple walking routine, or working with a personal trainer to develop a customised workout plan that meets your individual needs and goals.

In conclusion, regular exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your health, both physical and mental. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, improve your cardiovascular health, strengthen your muscles and bones, and improve your overall mood and self-esteem. So, start incorporating exercise into your daily routine today and take control of your health and wellbeing! Stop putting it off and get yourself moving today.