While many people know that engaging in more physical activity could improve their health, finding the motivation to hit the gym is easier said than done. In today’s “always-on” world, it can be tricky to fit a workout session into your jam-packed schedule. More pressingly, the rising cost of living is encouraging people to reassess their spending habits and cancel their subscriptions to a range of services, including gym membership. Without the structure and energising atmosphere of a gym or exercise class, it can be challenging to maintain a regular exercise routine.
If your physical activity levels have dropped recently – or if you’re a lifelong exercise-shirker – it’s important to remember the kinds of rewards an active lifestyle can bring. Okay, we understand that slipping on your trainers before a busy day at work can feel punishing, particularly if your fitness levels have waned over the years. However, reacquainting yourself with the gym will pay dividends in the long term!
To help you find your motivation, we’ve put together a list of the top reasons to get active. If you’re struggling to balance your health needs with a tight bank balance, we’ve also added a short note about the affordability of InspireAll’s excellent activities and leisure facilities. Looking after yourself shouldn’t have to cost the earth!
You may live longer
Medical professionals and academics alike continue to remind us that exercise is one of the best medicines. If we could package the benefits of physical activity into a tiny pill, we’d transform the healthcare landscape forever. Why? Believe it or not, even moderate exercise could help you live longer and prevent a wide range of chronic diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure, stroke, and a variety of cancers.
Sedentary lifestyles can be dangerous
Living a largely sedentary lifestyle puts you at risk of a range of chronic diseases and can weaken your immune system. If an inactive person becomes ill, they’ll probably take much longer to recover and suffer more serious long-term consequences compared to an active person.
Exercise could boost your mental health
Physical activity releases “feel-good” hormones known as endorphins, helping relieve feelings of anxiety and depression. In the long term, maintaining a regular workout routine could help you weather difficult experiences and live a happier life.
Physical activity improves sleep
If you suffer from insomnia, regular exercise could help regulate your body clock and ensure you sleep for at least seven hours per night. Forget sleeping pills, as they’ll only mask the problem and could prove addictive. What’s more, a recent study has shown that regular exercise could counter the negative health effects of poor sleep. So, your body will benefit even if your insomnia is unrelenting.
You could improve your bone and muscle strength
Regular physical activity helps strengthen the bones and muscles, preventing conditions such as osteoporosis and ensuring you stay agile and sprightly well into old age. If you’re keen to run around with your grandchildren or go on adventurous holidays in your golden years, sustained physical activity could help you achieve your dreams.
You’ll have more control over your weight
Do you struggle to maintain steady body weight? If so, physical exercise could help you take control of the number on the scales. During physical activity, your body expends the calories you’ve eaten, rather than storing them as fat. You’ll also continue to burn calories at a high rate in the hours after a workout, allowing you to indulge in the occasional treat without worrying about your weight.
Exercise improves brain function
Exercise enhances blood flow to the brain, helping to improve memory and cognitive function, particularly in older adults. What’s more, regularly exercising in mid-life could significantly reduce your chances of developing cognitive diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Physical will improve your quality of life
On top of the benefits listed above, exercise represents guilt-free, wholesome fun. While you may struggle to enjoy physical exercise while you’re building up your fitness levels, you’ll soon come to love your workouts. Obviously, it’s a good idea to find a sport you genuinely enjoy. Those who prefer meditative sports that can be enjoyed solo, for example, could benefit from running. Those looking to combine their workouts with opportunities to socialise, on the other hand, may wish to join an exercise class or a sports team.
Get active and invest in your health and wellbeing with InspireAll today!
InspireAll has a range of affordable sports classes and facilities available for new and existing customers. Whether you’re a workout rookie or an experienced gym bunny, you’re welcome to join one of our leisure centres. We have a range of membership and pay-as-you-go deals available PLUS, if you join this May, you will get one month free!
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