Staying active benefits people of all ages, improving physical fitness, mental alertness, and overall well-being. Exercise can prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s, heart disease, and cancer. Even activities that stimulate the brain, like reading and socializing, can benefit health. A brisk half-hour walk five times a week can provide health benefits and be easily incorporated into daily routines.
Staying active can benefit people of all ages, including children, adults, and seniors. Some benefits of an active lifestyle include physical fitness, mental alertness, and a positive attitude. Exercise is also sometimes credited with increasing the body’s ability to fight disease. In the United States, it is estimated that only 30 percent of adults exercise regularly, and nearly 40 percent may not exercise at all. Staying active can be incorporated into a person’s daily life through activities such as walking.
Staying physically active can result in a higher level of stamina and flexibility. Physical activity sometimes allows people to maintain a healthy weight and helps them look and feel better about themselves. Some believe that childhood obesity levels can be reduced through increased physical exercise. Activity will also typically help keep muscles toned and can improve posture. Seniors who are active may improve their balance, which may reduce their risk of falling and injury.
Being physically active often leads to more energy, lower stress levels, and a general sense of well-being. It can also reduce depression and feelings of anxiety. Physical activity can stimulate various brain chemicals that can make a person feel happier and more relaxed than before exercising. Those who stay active sometimes enjoy longer, healthier lives.
Aerobic exercise, which increases heart rate, can be effective in preventing disease. Staying active can help prevent or slow the spread of Alzheimer’s disease. An active lifestyle may also help prevent heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are sometimes less common among those who keep active. Research suggests that the occurrence of colon and breast cancer can be reduced by staying active.
Staying active is not just about exercising your body. Participating in activities that stimulate the brain can also benefit a person’s overall health. Solving crossword puzzles and word search games can help keep your mind sharp. Challenging the brain with regular reading can also increase cognitive function and comprehension. Having an active social life and interacting with other people of all ages can help keep your brain active and improve your mood.
Despite the benefits of staying active, many people lead a sedentary lifestyle. Anything that requires movement and causes even a slight increase in heart rate can be beneficial. For most people, a brisk half-hour walk five times a week can help them reap the health benefits associated with staying active. It can be walked almost anywhere, requires no specialized equipment, and is generally safe for most people. It can be incorporated into a daily routine while you shop, do chores, and even take out the trash.
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