The Importance of Daily Exercise

Woman stretches in living room with dog.

By Emily Daigle

We all know by now that movement is important for us and we need at least an hour of physical activity a day, but why is it so important? No matter what age or physical condition you are in, the health benefits of daily exercise are applicable to everyone. Below we have listed nine great ways that daily exercise encourages a happier and healthier lifestyle.

1. Exercise can be great for joints, muscles, and bones

When paired with adequate protein intake, daily exercise can be key to building your muscles. Physical activity has the ability to build your bone density, which prevents certain diseases and discomfort in joints.

2. Exercise can boost your mood

Physical movement stimulates certain chemicals in your brain that control your happiness. Therefore, exercise has the ability to boost your mood, reduce stress levels, and relax your mind. Think about going on a brisk walk that next time you need to raise your spirits.

3. Exercise can increase your energy levels

Physical exercise carries nutrients and oxygen to your tissues, which allows for your cardiovascular system to work more efficiently. This gives you more energy when your heart and lung health improve. If you find yourself easily winded or fatigued by lunchtime, try some exercise to enhance your endurance.

4. Exercise can help with weight loss

Here is the main reason many people include daily exercise into their routine. Physical activity leads to calories being burned. Consistent burning of calories can lead to weight loss and the prevention of weight gain. Small everyday changes such as taking the stairs or parking further from your destination can help you consistently lose calories.

Woman working out in living room.
5. Exercise can reduce your risk of chronic diseases

Have you ever heard of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol? It’s known as the ‘good’ cholesterol because it minimizes unhealthy triglycerides. In shorter terms, it reduces your risk of cardiovascular diseases by keeping your blood flowing smoothly and benefits your cognitive health. High blood pressure, many types of cancers, anxiety, depression, stroke, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and arthritis can all be better managed and prevented by daily exercise.

6. Exercise can help your skin health

Physical exercise stimulates blood flow, which can increase your body’s production of natural antioxidants and delay the appearance of aging. Not enough blood flow can lead to the degeneration of your skin cells.

7. Exercise can improve your brain health and memory

Increases in heart rate help the flow of blood and oxygen to your brain. This can also lead to the stimulation of hormone production that can enhance the growth of brain cells. Studies have shown that daily exercise benefits the growth of the hippocampus, the part of the brain that is vital to memory and learning.

8. Exercise can better your sleep quality and relaxation

As regular exercise can boost your energy, the energy depletion that occurs can help replenish your sleep quality. One study has even found that 150 minutes of moderate physical activity during one week improved sleep quality by up to 65%.

9. Exercise can be fun and social

Daily exercise can give you a chance to connect with people of similar interests! There are many different, fun ways to get your daily movement in, including dance classes and cycling groups. Make daily exercise something to look forward to by incorporating your favorite activities.

Check out our blog on How to Stay Active at Home for more helpful tips!