Why You Need to Exercise…Now More Than Ever
Like everyone else during these days of quarantine, you’re probably spending a lot more time at home. You may by working from home, home-schooling your kids…and not going out much at all.
Daily routines have been completely disrupted as we do our best to limit the spread of COVID-19. And your exercise routine may be an unexpected casualty.
That daily trip to the gym is gone. Exercise classes are out of the question. Even parks, trails, and beaches are for the most part off limits.
Even worse, there’s a good chance your workouts have been replaced by sitting on the couch while you binge-watch Netflix and Hulu. Don’t feel bad…we’re all doing it.
But…now more than ever, you really need the benefits of daily exercise. Here’s why:
Exercise Improves Your Overall Health
Regular exercise reduces body fat and increases lean muscle mass. It improves aerobic capacity, so more oxygen can be delivered to your brain and blood stream. It’s good for your cardiovascular system, your bones, and just about every other system in your body.
Exercise Supports Your Immune System
Regular, moderate aerobic exercise encourages the production of microphages…important immune system cells that hunt down and destroy foreign cells. One study reported that people who exercise regularly have 50% fewer upper respiratory infections (like colds) per year compared to inactive people.
Exercise Gives You More Energy
It’s a fact. Sitting on the couch slows you down physically and mentally. The less active you are, the more sluggish you get. Exercise kicks your metabolism into gear and makes your heart pump faster…bringing more oxygen to your brain and every other part of your body. The result: more energy.
Exercise Reduces Your Stress Level
Thanks to COVID-19 and its effects on our society…life is full of stress right now. Being stuck at home can make that stress worse. This is the kind of long-term stress that’s unhealthy for your mind and body.
Exercise, on the other hand, encourages the production of endorphins. These “feel good” hormones enhance your sense of well-being, thereby counteracting the negative effects of stress.
Exercise Helps You Sleep Better
Regular exercise helps your body to spend more of its sleep time in deep sleep…the most restorative kind of sleep. And deep sleeps does wonders for the immune system, cardiovascular health, and stress reduction.
In addition, exercise tires you out so your body and mind will rest for longer when it’s time to sleep. Not only do you get better quality sleep…you’ll get more of it.
Exercise Improves Your Mood
Those endorphins your body produces during exercise act like little mood-enhancers. Are you feeling anxious or blah? Do you find yourself snapping at others for no good reason? A good workout can calm your worries, lift your spirits, and return you to your more patient self.
But the Gym is Closed…What Can You Do?
Just because your gym is closed doesn’t mean you have to take up residence on the couch. Here are a few suggestions to keep your exercise habits going strong:
- Schedule a time for physical activity. Morning, mid-day, evening…whatever works for you. Just don’t fall into the trap of thinking “I can always work out later”. Pick a time and stick to it.
- If it works for you, make exercise a family activity. Are members of your household getting on each other’s nerves? Get everyone out for a walk or a bike ride or a run. Just remember to social distance.
- Be creative and use what you have on hand. Use your body weight for resistance training. Watch exercise videos online. Or maybe now is the time to invest in some equipment for your home. There are many options (like resistance bands, suspension trainers, stability balls, dumbbells, and jump ropes) that are inexpensive, don’t take up much room, and can be purchased on the internet.
And One More Thing…
Proper hormone balance can be critical to the success of any exercise program.
If you’re having trouble getting your exercise routine off the ground…your hormones may be trying to tell you something.
Renew Youth can help you to jumpstart your fitness routine by making sure your hormones are balanced. Call us at 800-859-7511 or use our contact form to set up your free 30-minute consultation.
We’re here to help.
Schedule a free confidential consultation.
Free Consultation
