Anyone would say thanks for a healthy weight, body image and appetite. No need to train for hours on end. Simple workouts provide most health benefits. Two-thirds of America’s adults don’t get any exercise at all. Aim for an all around fitness program.

“Moderate exercise improves your overall health,” registered nurse Carrie Kooken said.

Exercise can improve all sorts of body functions. When the body is breathing harder than normal from an exercise you are allowing extra oxygen to release into various major muscles groups and the blood stream.  This allows for a more oxygenated body. A balanced workout plan can do things of all sorts from stabilizing hormones to increasing heart health.

“Regular physical activity increases the strength and endurance of the heart muscle,” Kooken said.

All sorts of health problems, small or big can be prevented through a workout at the gym or a quick walk. The recommended amount of time is 30 minutes daily. Just being active boosts “good” cholesterol and keeps a healthy blood flow. Also, physical activity can produce antibodies which fight off threatening bacteria and viruses. Mental health can be influenced too.

 Researchers at Duke University say that exercise improves brain functioning and can have antidepressant properties.

Symptoms of depression and anxiety may be relieved through exercise. Also, after a workout  some people feel more focused and clear headed. According to the Mayo Clinic’s online staff, exercise boosts energy levels and prevents joint pain.  The last thing people who are fatigued want to do is exercise but, studies show that exercise can give you that little push you need.

“Physical activity not only gets you physically healthy, but mentally healthy as well. By training your body, you train your mind,” senior Andy Lindsey said. “If you put your mind to it, your body can do anything.”

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