DO YOU NEED A REASON TO WORKOUT?

Here are some serious benefits to incorporating physical activity into your weekly routine:

1. Heart Disease- Regular exercise improves blood flow and helps your work more efficiently. It also improves good cholesterol (HDL) and lowers bad cholesterol. Activity reduces the risk of stroke, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Of course any exercise is better than none, but more is better! I suggest doing low intensity cardiovascular activity- such as a brisk walk, bike ride, elyptical, swim, or zumba class a few times a week for at least 30 minutes. It is also beneficial to do high intensity cardio a few times week- such as running, getting on the stairmaster, or using a bike or elyptical at a higher resistance. You can try intervals of fast and slow or low and high resistance to change things up too.

2. Stroke- According to Web MD, a study was published in the journal, Stroke, stating that moderately active study participants had 20% less risk of stroke than less active participants. Based on several studies, regular physical activity decreases your risk for having a stroke or dying from a stroke.

3. Type 2 Diabetes- According to Web MD,type 2 diabetes hasincreased durasticallythe last few decades and at least 17 million Americans now have it. Physical activity can assist in weight loss and help prevent and/or control this condition. Losing weight can increase insulin sensitivity, improve blood sugar and , and reduce blood pressure.

4. Back Pain- To avoid back pain or injury, strength training the back muscles along with the abdominal and core muscles is important.

5.Osteoporosis- Strength training and weight bearing exercise is proven to strengthen the bones and prevent bone loss or breakage. Women after menopause are at a higher risk for osteoporosis. Walking, jogging, dancing, stair climbing, hiking, or lifting weights will all help stregthen your bones.

6. Psyhological benefits-Physical activity releases endorphins, putting you in a better mood. Plus, exercise helps combat stress, depression and anxiety. Exercise is proven toincrease your self-esteem. So if you're feeling down and need a pick me up, hit the gym or get outside and move!