Why Get Off the Couch? Reasons to be Active Now!

Need a good reason to get up off the couch, turn off the TV, and get active? We've got more than just one reason; here are 15 good reasons why you should do some form of physical activity most days of the week.

You’ll feel and look better. Being physically active increases blood flow to all parts of your body, builds lean muscle, and decreases your body fat. You’ll end up with a better complexion, wear smaller clothes, and feel stronger and lighter.

You can make new friends. When you join a fitness class or join a program such as SVHC’s Trek for Health, it opens the door to meeting other people with similar, healthy interests.

You’ll have more energy. Recent studies have found that exercising actually increases one’s energy. So next time you think you’re too tired to move, take a short walk. Even ten minutes of walking counts towards the recommended 30 minutes of activity, five times per week. You’ll reap better benefits than crashing on the couch.

You’ll lower your risk for long-term health conditions. Regular activity has been shown to decrease a person’s risk for chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers.

You can learn a new skill. Why not try an activity you’ve never done before? Take a ballroom dancing class or learn to snowboard, if that’s your secret passion.

You’ll have more self-confidence. When you look and feel better, your self-esteem and belief in yourself increases too.
You’ll lower your risk for heart attack, stroke, and dementia. Regular physical activity can increase blood flow to the brain and help your heart work better.

You’ll be making time just for you and your needs. We all need time to ourselves to recoup and rejuvenate. Taking the time to exercise doesn’t mean you’re neglecting your responsibilities. In fact, it means you’ll be better prepared physically and mentally to deal with life’s challenges.

You’ll have a feeling of accomplishment. Setting and reaching physical activity goals may influence you to strive for and reach goals in other areas of your life.

You’ll relieve stress. Having a regular routine for being active is one the best ways to rev up your mind and body to help you deal with life’s small and big stressors.

You’ll increase your chances for living longer. A fit body is more prepared to fight off diseases and conditions that could affect your lifespan.

You may end up with a smaller number on the scale. Diet and exercise combined remain the best possible way to lose those extra pounds.

You can be a positive influence on other people. Many people have been inspired by the personal fitness journey of someone they know. You could inspire your child, partner, neighbor, or friend to increase his or her own activity level.

You can fight depression. Regular physical activity reduces your risk of depression and may help you sleep better. Recent studies have also shown that activity may actually work better than antidepressants for some with mild depression.

You just may have fun in the process! No one said you have to sit in a dreary basement in baggy grey sweats to be active. Mix up your routine and do active things you find you love. You’ll be more apt to stick with it if you’re enjoying yourself.

Source: http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/everyone/health/index.html; http://win.niddk.nih.gov/publications/active.htm#whatactivities