Exercise: Why we should do it, and how to get it done.

Almost every day there is a new study, article, podcast or documentary extolling the virtues of exercise. And yet it can still be really hard to make ourselves actually do it. Here is a simple overview of why we should do exercise, and how to get it done.

Improves your physical health.
Exercise can help control your weight, reduces the risk of heart disease, lowers blood pressure, and helps manage blood sugar and insulin levels. It increases blood flow to the skin, which can minimise the extent of skin conditions like eczema. Keeping fit can also help fight inflammation and boost your immune system. We also know that exercise can influence positive eating habits, ultimately improving your physical health.
Keeps you young.
Exercise helps to maintain muscle mass, improves skin elasticity, and increases bone density, balance and mobility. It assists in keeping your thinking, learning and judgement skills sharp as you age. Additionally, exercise increases your energy levels, allowing you to stay active and energetic even as you age.
Benefits your mental health.
Exercise is proven to improve your mood and can reduce the effect of depression, decrease stress levels, and increase your general feeling of well-being. Physical activity improves your sleep, which can improve your mood on a day-to-day basis. Exercise can also alleviate anxiety and boost your confidence, self-esteem and self-worth.

Find something you enjoy (or at least don’t hate).
Some people actually enjoy the process of exercising, others do it simply because they know they have to. If you fall into the latter group, rather than forcing yourself to do a physical activity you really don’t enjoy, find one you are willing to do regularly. By taking this approach, it’s likely you will come to enjoy your chosen physical activity in time.
Remove the barriers.
It’s very easy to find excuses not to exercise. Make sure you remove as many excuses or barriers as possible so you will stick to your fitness program. Barrier: “I don’t like training in the cold.” Solution: Buy some good quality training gear to keep you warm and get out there. Barrier: “My evenings are full of meetings and children’s commitments, so I can’t exercise after work.” Solution: Do your exercise first thing in the morning before your day gets too busy. Barrier: “I don’t know what exercise to do and how to start.” Solution: Book in with a personal trainer or attend a group fitness class to provide you with the guidance and framework you need.
Just do it.
I apologise for using the good old Nike slogan, but let’s be honest, it’s a really good one. In the end, there is no secret way to get yourself to exercise. You simply need to make the decision to do something and then just do it.

By Angie Black

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