SPRING INTO FITNESS

Sometimes we wonder whether all this exercise is really worth the effort.  On busy days, we are tempted to put the workout on hold.  We'll get back to it tomorrow, or the day after tomorrow, or maybe the day after that when things settle down (which they never do).  A couple of weeks go by, and now you are too embarrassed to show up for exercise class.  Don't be!  The benefits of exercise accrue only to those who make it a llifelong commitment.  Sometimes a reminder of the many health beneftis offered by exercise help us reconfirm its importance and make it a lifelong priority.

Regular aerobic exercise helps prevent heart disease.  It does this by slowing the build-up of plaque in the ateries of the heart.  Active people tend to have larger, cleaner arteries.  An additional cardiovascular benefit of aerobic exercise is that it helps to normalize blood pressure, especially in people whose blood pressure is somewhat elevated. 

Exercise improves the body's ability to regulate blood sugar, thus preventing type II diabetes.

Exercise helps control body weight and is essential in any weight-loss program.  Exercise burns calories, strengthens the muscles and joints.   Weight bearing exercise prevents the loss of bone mineral that occurs as we age, which can lead to a condition known as osteoporosis.  Weight-bearing exercise includes walking, joggging, aerobic dance, racquet sports - any activity that applies some force to the bones.

Exercise makes life more fun! As fitness improves, activity becomes easier, and you're more likely to go out for a hike, or enjoy a day of skiing.  Exercise increases your stress-resistance, helps you feel more relaxed and even sleep better.  An active lifestyle also encourages other health-promoting habits, like avoiding tobacco and alcohol and devleoping healthful eating habits.

Have you exercised today?