Exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. It has been linked to improved mental and physical health, increased happiness, and enhanced quality of life. This article reviews the evidence for the benefits of exercise and discusses the types of exercise that are most beneficial.
Exercise has long been known to have positive effects on physical health. It can reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer (Khan et al., 2018). Exercise can also improve strength, cardiovascular health, and flexibility (Khan et al., 2018). Additionally, exercise can help with weight management and improve body composition (Khan et al., 2018).
Exercise has also been linked to improved mental health. Studies have found that regular exercise can reduce stress and depression, improve mood, and enhance cognitive functioning (Gomes et al., 2019; Kraemer et al., 2019). It can also help with sleep quality and reduce fatigue (Gomes et al., 2019).
The type of exercise that is most beneficial depends on the individual and their goals. Aerobic exercise such as walking, running, cycling, and swimming can help with cardiovascular health and weight management. Strength training such as weightlifting can help build muscle and improve body composition. It is important to incorporate both aerobic and strength training into an exercise routine for optimal health benefits.
In conclusion, exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and can have positive effects on both physical and mental health. It is important to incorporate both aerobic and strength training into an exercise routine to maximize the health benefits.
References
Gomes, A. P., Vieira, P., & Silva, M. (2019). The effects of exercise on mental health: A review of randomized controlled trials. Psychiatry Research, 279, 108541. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2019.108541
Khan, A. A., Khattak, M. U., & Khan, M. M. (2018). The role of exercise in health promotion. Current Opinion in Supportive and Palliative Care, 12(4), 437–443. https://doi.org/10.1097/SPC.0000000000000467
Kraemer, W. J., Ratamess, N. A., Volek, J. S., & Denegar, C. R. (2019). The effects of exercise on mental health. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 13(4), 258–268. https://doi.org/10.1177/1559827618817053