Exercise. For some it is a love affair and for others it is love/hate affair. I love it when I’ve been on a roll and I hate it when I feel like I’m starting from scratch again. However, the benefits you gain from regular exercise far outweigh any negative feelings I may have about it. In the MayoClinic.com’s article, Exercise: 7 benefits of regular physical activity, the following three are my top motivators:
- Chronic disease fighter – Regular exercise can decrease triglyceride levels and boost your good cholesterol at the same time! A few years ago, I went to see my doctor for routine blood work. When I returned for the results I was shocked to discover that my triglycerides were high enough to put me in the “borderline-high” category. A high level of triglycerides raised my risk for heart disease and considering it is in my family history – this was my wake up call. What did I do? I signed up for my next marathon knowing that the regular training would motivate me and lower my triglyceride levels. I also started monitoring my diet. I began taking my lunches and snacks to work and avoided fast food and limited dining out.
- Weight manager – The American College of Sports and Medicine suggests 150 to 250 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity to prevent weight gain.
The CDC recommends the talk test as a simple way to measure intensity level. “…if you’re doing moderate-intensity activity you can talk, but not sing, during the activity. If you’re doing vigorous-intensity activity, you will not be able to say more than a few words without pausing for a breath.”
The minimum level of moderate physical activity is equal to 30 minutes, 5 days a week and has been shown to prevent significant weight gain. Exercise is good for the heart and is even better when combined with a healthy diet. To lose 1 lb. of fat per week, a reduction of 500 calories per day is needed. Not entirely sure of how many calories you are eating per day? Try keeping a food journal to track calories and exercise.
- Playtime – Working out does not mean you are chained to a gym or that you have to go run five miles! Taking dance lessons, walking for your local charity, or going for a hike all count! I like to do stuff with friends, in fact this weekend a good friend and I had a blast at the Warrior Dash. We got to hurtle cars, traverse beams, crawl through tunnels, jump over fire and play in the mud — smiling the entire time while getting our workout on!
Whatever reason you choose to stay in shape, find your motivation and start today!
My personal reasons to exercise are:
I want to fight the temptation of the Candy’s call every holiday season.
I want to fit in today’s clothes after the holiday season.
I want live to be 99 years old like my grandfather.
I want to be around for my family.
What are you personal reasons?
Luke says
Awesome picture!
Edsss says
Awesome post. I like the pictures.
marla says
Such a fun and important post about the benefits of exercise.
Tabitha says
Thank you Edsss! This event was so much fun that we’re thinking of doing it again next year!
Tabitha says
Thank you Marla – It is important to fun too!
MATHEW CANTER says
excellent blog,specially for those who lead sedentary lives and have become a victim of so many diseases.As a result of which have to take statins which in turn have side effects.
So instead of suffering why not be active.
Tabitha says
Thank you Mathew. I think one of the obstacles is that people feel like they have to schedule time and fit exercise into an already busy day. Instead, I think exercise should be viewed as a time for self pampering, socializing and having fun!
Dr. Ken Romeo says
Amen! As a former member of the ACSM and current member of the Medical Committee for the US Olympic Boxing Team, I agree that it’s pretty hard to exercise too much for a normal individual.
I would temper this comment if you think you have, or are currently diagnosed, with any medical problems.
See your doctor…..I have yet to hear a good doc say that physical activity is bad for you under normal circumstances.
Tabitha says
Exactly (!) – and physical activity encompasses so many activities that doesn’t imply you have to run 10 miles or lift weights. Even women who are pregnant (with their doctor’s consultation and approval) can exercise! Thanks Dr. Romeo!
Reep Claribel says
Impressive! Thanks for sharing 🙂
stella_ray says
That look so fun ! I am hesitant with outdoor activities . Now it seems playing in the mud is good for kids and it can help to exercise not just physically but also mentally . I am excited to buy their kids activewear .
Shiela Hua says
Playing a new sport is exciting that’s why you need to have the best set of activewear .