Is Exercise Your Best Preventative Drug?

Defined muscles, a smaller waistline, better fitting clothes.

These are just a few of the most common reasons to get back in the gym and in better shape. And they're definitely good reasons! Still yet, this isn't always enough to keep us consistently active and eating right.

So let's try a new approach: let's look below the surface!

Physical activity doesn't just make us appear 'fit' - it's actually great medicine! Here is a look into a small sample of the health benefits offered by regular workout sessions. 

Here's how:

• Get your calcium! Yep, the osteoporosis preventing stuff! We hear all about calcium from milk for stronger bones, but weight bearing exercises are actually the most effective way to combat osteoporosis or weak and brittle bones.
• A good night's sleep Your body heals while you sleep - so we can not stress enough how important it is to make sure you get in your recommended 7 hours of zzZZzzz's! Studies have shown that regular exercisers rarely experience insomnia and report having better quality sleep and feeling more rested during the day.
• Brain Power Exercising means increased blood flow to your brain, and that along makes it function better! Exercising regularly also promotes the growth of new brain cells, boosting your capacity for memory and learning. A number of neurotransmitters are also triggered, such as endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, and GABA. Some of these are well-known for their role in mood control. Exercise, in fact, is also an effective prevention and treatment strategy for depression.

The truth is there are numerous ways in which exercise can act as medicine - but we know you didn't come here to read a novel. :) So check out the infographic below from Idea Fit for more ways that exercise is beneficial to your health! Or if you'd like to see how exercise can benefit you, schedule a free Program Design Session with one of our Personal Trainers. 

O2 Fitness is here to help you get in shape and enjoy the benefits of a healthier lifestyle. Our exciting selection of group fitness classes can help you get moving and motivated. You can also enjoy a wide range of advanced fitness equipment at your local O2 Fitness gym if you prefer solo workouts. Begin experiencing the benefits of regular workouts for free today with an O2 Fitness trial membership. Contact our fitness experts today to get started! 

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