Here at Healthy Steps we can’t stress enough the importance of exercise along with your healthy eating plan. Here are just a few, 51 to be exact, reasons why it’s a good idea to get going and get moving.

Reference: www.cancer.gov

  1. Improves quality of life
  2. Lower Alzheimer’s risk
  3. Lowers risk of metabolic syndrome and prediabetes
  4. Up to 80% lower risk of breast cancer
  5. Strengthens bones & lowers risk of osteoporosis
  6. Improves self-esteem
  7. Effectively relieves symptoms of mild depression
  8. Can decreased chronic joint or muscle pain
  9. Lowers risk of heart attack
  10. Improves cognitive function and creative problem solving
  11. Improves body composition (ratio of fat mass to lean mass)
  12. Boosts levels of “feel good” biochemicals like endorphins
  13. 30-40% lower risk of colon cancer
  14. Lowers blood levels of “bad cholesterol” (LDL)
  15. Lowers blood pressure
  16. Boosts your immune system
  17. Lowers risk of Type 2 Diabetes
  18. Improves body image, even without changes in appearance
  19. Strongly linked with better weight loss maintenance (staying at your new lower weight)
  20. Prevents short-term memory loss in the elderly
  21. Improves symptoms of anxiety
  22. 20-40% lower risk of endometrial cancer
  23. Raises blood levels of “good cholesterol” (HDL)
  24. Can decrease pain associated with osteoarthritis
  25. Improves flexibility and relieves muscle tension

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  26. Burns calories
  27. Provides stress relief
  28. 20% lower risk of lung cancer
  29. Supports other healthy behaviors like healthy eating
  30. Improves insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance
  31. Greater ease with activities of daily living
  32. Targets belly fat
  33. Lowers risk of injury (with stronger, more flexible muscles)
  34. Lowers risk of stroke
  35. Increases optimistic feelings and improves mood
  36. Lowers risk of getting a cold
  37. Kicks up metabolic rate (you burn more calories even at rest)
  38. Core strength can improve lower back pain
  39. Protects mobility
  40. Makes it easier to fall asleep
  41. Improves heart health
  42. Increases libido in both men and women
  43. Decreases the number of times you wake up during the night
  44. More toned and fit appearance
  45. Increases self-confidence
  46. Lower risk of esophageal cancer, liver cancer, stomach cancer, kidney cancer, myeloid leukemia, multiple myeloma, and cancers of the head and neck, rectum, and bladder.
  47. Increases energy & vitality
  48. 40% Lower risk of Erectile dysfunction
  49. Increases pounds and inches lost during weight loss
  50. Lowers stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline
  51. Lowers all-cause mortality risk by 20-30%