Weight Loss Exercises

Top 10 Reasons to Exercise

by Angie Newton

1. More energy and focus- Staying active with exercise boosts your energy and helps you maintain focus.  I have found that I am much less fatigued since adding exercise to my daily routine and I am able to focus on things better.  Exercise has helped my concentration too.
   
   
2. Weight Loss- When you see the scale numbers move, it gives you the motivation to keep going. Exercise, fitness and good nutrition will help aid in your weight loss. I personally try not to let the scale consume me because I think how you feel is more important.  It's hard not to make the scale your main focus sometimes so I recommend that you only weigh yourself once a week so you don't stress over the numbers on the scale.
   
   
3. Inch Loss- Taking measurements monthly and seeing the reduction in inches on every part of your body is exciting. You'll find that your clothes fit better, you can buy smaller sizes and eventually will not have to shop in the plus size store.  I think it's best to put your focus on inch loss rather than weight loss. Ultimately when you lose inches, you're going to lose weight too.
   
   
4. Variety- There are so many ways to exercise that you should never get bored.  It's very important for weight loss motivation to mix it up a bit and do a variety of different exercises.  Plus doing a variety of exercise engages many muscle groups and helps accelerate your weight/inch loss.
   
   
5. Sleep Better- The more activity you get during the day, the better. Since starting to exercise on a consistent basis, I have slept better than I ever have.  Even though sometimes I feel exhausted it's usually a good exhaustion from working out.  I also have a much deeper sleep and I'm not as restless.
   
   
6. Reduce Stress- Exercise really helps with reducing stress.  You're not as edgy, or picky and things don't bother you as much as they used to.  You're more patient with others too. High stress can be very detrimental to your health so please reduce it by taking time to exercise.
   
   
7. Self Confidence- Exercising has given me more self confidence in many ways. I have met goals and challenges that I have set for myself.  My self esteem has grown both physically and socially.  I am doing workouts I never thought possible and I'm no longer nervous to go to the gym alone plus don't feel anxious about talking to and getting to know other members. I have a positive outlook on everything now.
   
   
8. Improve Posture- Many exercises help to improve posture.  You'll find that you no longer slouch and your balance and coordination is better too. Exercising, strength training and stretching makes me more aware of my posture.  Pay attention next time you are working out and you'll see!
   
   
9. Boost Immune System- I'm not as sick as I used to be and get less colds plus my migraine headaches have pretty much disappated.  If you're working out in a gym be sure to take precautions too.  On the other end of the spectrum though is too much exercise could possibly weaken the immune system.  A healthy diet and good nutrition in addition to exercise is very important.
   
   
10. Muscle Strength/Bone Strength- Consistent exercise will help build muscle strength and bone strength and in turn you can work out harder for longer periods of time and increase your resistance.  Having good muscle and bone strength you are less likely to injure yourself.  Both high impact cardio and strength training can help keep you strong.  I used to be weak and could not even imagine doing what I have accomplished today. Exercise not only increases bone strength but slows bone loss.  Just recently I heard the saying, "If you don't use it, you lose it" (that is pertaining to muscle and bone).