The Health and Fitness industry is one of the biggest in the world, experiencing exponential growth year after year. Its growing popularity ensures that millions of people invest in gym memberships, activities, and exercise equipment each year. There are a wealth of benefits that come with regular exercise, some of which may surprise you. Here are just a few of the incentives:

 

• Improves mental health and overall mood

When we engage in physical activity our brain releases feel-good chemicals including endorphins, dopamine, and endocannabinoids. These in turn can better your mood helping people to manage stress, depression, and anxiety.

 

• Energy booster

As well as promoting better mental health, exercise can increase your energy, improving blood and oxygen circulation. If you’re feeling lethargic or needing an extra boost, why not participate in 30 minutes of light exercise, even a 10 minute walk can help.

 

• Ensures better sleep

Physical activity makes it easier to fall asleep and promotes better sleep quality. There is evidence to suggest that 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week can lessen symptoms/ the impact of insomnia.

 

• Helps with weight gain or maintenance

A key benefit of exercising is that it can help you to maintain your weight or help you to lose some weight. This in turn can bring a host of benefits if you are overweight or looking to improve your health and lifestyle.

 

• Helps with confidence

Physical activity can also help you gain confidence and improve your self-esteem and body image. Your elevated mood will also contribute to feeling better about yourself and feeling happier with your appearance too.

 

• Reduces health risks

Increasing your cardiovascular fitness can lead to great health benefits and reduce health risks. Regular physical activity can decrease your chances of developing type 2 diabetes, many types of cancer, and heart disease amongst many other chronic conditions. It can also aid in reducing pain for those who suffer from arthritis helping them to function better.

 

• Strengthens bones and muscles

As we get older we naturally can develop osteoporosis and sarcopenia. The former describes the condition of our bones becoming weaker over time, making it easier for them to break. The latter, sarcopenia, is when we lose muscle as we age. This also leads to an increased risk of damage after suffering a fall. Exercise helps strengthen both muscles and bones and prevents or lessens the impact of such conditions.

 

• Increases your chances of living longer

There is evidence to suggest that regular physical activity can increase your life expectancy by several years. It improves your overall health, reducing the risk of developing a chronic condition, which in turn can help you to live longer and be healthy and happy.

 

With so many benefits that come along with engaging in regular physical activity, it seems a no-brainer to keep up with your fitness and exercise when you can even if that just involves a short walk each day. Everyone must meet themselves where they are at and build the frequency of their physical activity up or build up the intensity. You should always consult with your doctor when starting to exercise or when considering a new training programme.

If you might be interested in starting or investing in a health and fitness franchise, come to the International Franchise Show next April on the 14th and 15th to see what is on offer. Get your free tickets here!