Health Benefits of Keeping Fit
Keeping fit is the act of maintaining physical well-being through physical activity.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says “Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health,” and everyone can benefit.
There are innumerable benefits of being fit. Some include:
Improved ability to focus;
Research has shown that exercise stimulates the secretion of chemicals such as the brain neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This stimulates neurons to branch and connect in more ways. More neural connections mean that the brain can learn and focus better.
Stronger muscles and bones;
Muscles respond to the stresses brought by exercise via hypertrophy. The muscles develop new muscles in order to meet the extra demand for power. The bones also become sturdier with exercise. Bones become stronger in response to stress that is loaded onto itself by the muscles attached to it. By exercising, the body ensures that the bones are absorbing calcium from the blood.
Better coping with stress;
Exercise becomes an avenue where a person gets "time off" from the usual stresses that he/she faces daily. Through physical exertion, he/she is able to release the stresses that he/she has accumulated, and he/she also becomes better in handling future stressors. It has also been studied that prolonged exercise can result in a "runner’s high". This occurs when endorphins, or the body’s natural pain-killers, are released, bringing about a sense of well-being and happiness after a hard day’s workout.
More restful sleep;
Because of physical exertion, the body will naturally require rest. People who exercise regularly have more restful sleep.
Improved posture;
Proper posture is important in ensuring that the bones and muscles of the body are aligned properly to ensure that they can work efficiently whether during movement or static positions. Good posture also ensures that the bones are in correct alignment and are not unduly stressed. Improper posture can overstress bones such as the spine which can result in back pain and eventual degeneration of the spinal discs.
