Exercising...

For Good

We've all heard that it's good for us. Most of us have probably groaned about doing it. Procrastinated... and then wondered, "Is exercising really worth all that time and effort (and pain)? What good does it really do?"

Yes. Exercise really is worth doing (and doing regularly). It can't be emphasized enough, the number of positive benefits that come from regular exercise. Here is a brief list of the main reasons to consider exercise your friend:

Increasing/maintaining Strength - So you can have enough energy and strength to do the things you want to do. When muscles aren't used much, they atrophy (shrink), and the next thing you know, you can't do the things you used to be able to do because it tires you out too much.
Preventing Disease - Exercise now, and give future-you a happier life with a lower risk of heart disease and osteoporosis.
Healing Illness - Moderate exercise strengthens your immune system.
Improving Circulation - The better the circulation, the better your body will function (see below).
Detoxifying - Sweating is a great way to eliminate toxins from the body, especially for men, who don't detoxify through menstruation.
Avoiding Obesity - Obesity is correlated with increased incidences of many diseases, and exercise (with healthy eating) is one of the main factors in achieving a healthy weight.
Feeling Good - Exercise is a really good outlet for stress; it stimulates endorphin production to make you feel good. An intense workout allows you to feel more connected to your body, and with the right mindset, can take you away from the stressors of the day.
Feeling Good about yourself - When we feel good, we look better to ourselves, which makes us appreciate ourselves more, which makes us want to take care of ourselves, which makes us feel good.. It's a positive-feedback cycle of positivity.

What? How? When? Huh?
It can be confusing when you first start an exercise program. Make sure you seek the advice of a licensed health professional before you begin. The start of the exercise journey can be painful, but even more so if you get injured or aggravate any current health conditions. Hand-in-hand with the Naturopathic philosophy, exercise routines are different for different people. Listen to health experts, and most importantly, listen to your body. There are many variants to look at when figuring out the best routine for you:

What - Cardiovascular exercise (e.g. aerobic exercises) are important in improving your heart function and lung capacity, as well as in weight loss. Weight-lifting is important in maintaining muscle strength and developing specific areas of the body. It is best to do a mixture of both in your routine. Different people have different needs - some react well to cardio, and some to weight-lifting. Find out what your body reacts to best, and don't force yourself beyond your body's capabilities.
How long - Make sure you give yourself at least 5-10 minutes to warm up your body before starting the more intense exercises. 20-30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise, 3-4 times per week is recommended. The duration of weight-lifting varies with your intensity and goal.
When - Determine if morning, afternoon, or evening exercises feel best for you. Work with your body and schedule to find the optimal time for a routine workout. It is important to fit it in without creating more stress around it, which will deter you from doing it.
Huh? - If everything about exercise is still foreign to you, consult a trained professional and educate yourself about the ins and outs of potential exercises before you begin. Books such as Lose the Weights teach you about your body, and provide exercises you can do in the comfort of your own home, without an expensive gym membership.

Bottom Line...
Exercising is good for more reasons than I can mention on this website. As part of a total, holistic, healthy-lifestyle approach, it can really help shape the health of your future, and present body. Be careful if you are just starting to exercise, and consult a health professional for advice before you begin.