6 Reasons to Keep Fit
1. A Healthy Metabolism
Building strength is crucial for
maintaining a strong metabolism as
you age. The main reason is that
lean muscle plays a significant role
in maintaining a healthy weight and
general metabolic functions.
For example, lean muscle can help
balance blood sugar and support a
healthy thyroid and hormones.
Generally, the more lean muscle you
hold on your frame, the higher your
basal metabolic rate is, which means
you need more calories just to
maintain your weight.
Ever notice that muscular athletes
can get away with eating a lot? It’s
not just that they’re training for
many hours a day; muscle also burn more calories than fat does.
2. A Healthy Heart
Muscle-training and exercise of any kind causes the heart to pump
blood more effectively. This can help support healthy blood pressure
levels naturally and improve circulation. But that’s not all. The heart
is also strengthened when you train your muscles. Just like any
other muscle, when it’s routinely put under more pressure, it adapts
by gaining the ability to do its job better.
3. Balanced Blood Sugar
Strength training can be a natural blood sugar balancer, since it
helps with removal of glucose (sugar) from the blood. Instead,
sugar is brought into your muscles and used as fuel.
4. Mood Booster
Some people refer to working out as the body’s natural mood
booster. And it’s true!
Biologically, working out reduces stress and is tied to improvements
in self-esteem, confidence, the ability to problem-solve, better sleep
and emotional health. When you exercise, your body releases
endorphins, chemicals that give you a natural high and lift your
mood.
5. Boosts Brain Power
Strength training is often tied to brain health, too. In fact, the
hormone BDNF, which is naturally stimulated by exercise, helps
boost brain power. Exercise also lowers oxidative stress, which is a
win when it comes to brain health and overall health.
6. Healthy Joints and Bones
Increasing muscle mass often offers protection for joints and bone.
Generally, stronger muscles mean that you rely less on your joints
to move around. Exercising has been shown to help keep the back,
ankles, knees and hips performing well, while also increasing bone
strength and density.