Wednesday 23rd September is National Fitness Day 2020. This is a day to highlight the importance of exercise and the positive effects it can have on our health, both physically and mentally. This year in particular has been a challenging year to keep on top of our fitness due to Covid19, but that hasn’t stopped many of us see home workouts becoming the norm.
So whether you prefer to work out in the gym, your living room, back garden or with friends, it’s important to stick at it- your body will thank you for it in the short term and years down the line!
Being physically active can:
- Reduce your risk of coronary heart disease, heart attack and stroke
- Manage your weight better and reduces your risk of becoming obese
- Lowers the risk of some cancers
- Lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes
- Have a lower blood cholesterol level
- Have lower blood pressure
- Have stronger bones, muscles and joints and lower risk of developing osteoporosis
- Lower your risk of falls (especially among older adults)
- Recover better from periods of hospitalisation or bed rest
There are many studies which have shown that doing physical activity can also greatly improve mental health. For example, it can help with:
- Better sleep - Even short bursts of exercise in the morning or afternoon can help regulate your sleep patterns. The more you exercise, the more tired you will be come bedtime. If you need any top tips for getting a good nights sleep, check out our blog post here.
- Better moods - When you exercise, your body will release endorphins, the ‘feel good’ hormones that give you a sense of wellbeing, make you feel happier and give you more energy. These endorphins will also help you concentrate and feel mentally sharp for daily tasks.
- Better self esteem - By improving and achieving goals during exercise may increase self esteem, making you feel better about yourself.
- Managing stress, anxiety and depression - Your body will also release cortisol which helps us manage stress. Exercise also gives people to focus on and take their mind of other thoughts, and can be a great coping strategy for some.
- Reducing risk of depression - Studies have shown that regular exercise can help reduce the likelihood of experiencing a period of depression
- Meeting new people and making friends - Doing group or team activities can give you a sense of purpose and inclusion, and help you meet and connect with other likeminded people
Exercise is an essential part of our day-to-day lives, whatever your age, there's strong scientific and physical evidence that being physically active can help you lead a healthier and happier life. So why not set yourself some new fitness goals today?
