For the majority of us, one really controversial topic that pops up in our conversations is
working out, and, as the new year has begun, people tend to set themselves up to unrealistic expectations regarding their fitness, and often end up completely loathing the experience or giving up before they could even grasp the incredible effects that exercise can have over their bodies. By mentioning effects, I am not referring to anything that relates to the way working out can make us look, but rather I want to accentuate how it makes us FEEL. So, before we delve into the beauty behind this topic, I want you to take a moment to think about the last time you exercised and whether any of the following explanations help you comprehend the intricate phenomenons that occur in your real-life experiences.
Working out does not only provide short-term benefits, but also notable long-term ones.
As we start a jog in the park, a low-impact pilates workout or a weight lifting session, either one of those forms of exercise initiate a cascade of physiological and psychological responses that contribute to immediate well-being. During physical activity, the brain is in a constant state of “stress”, but not the negative type, although it seems to believe that we are either fighting or fleeing from an enemy. The brain uses this prediction and in order to protect itself from danger, it releases a protein called BDNF, whose nature is to protect and repair our memory neurons and act as a reset switch.
Simultaneously, endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, are released and they bind to receptors in the brain in order to minimise the discomfort produced by exercise, also known as muscle soreness, creating therefore an euphoric sensation commonly known as the “runner’s high” that aids in achieving a clear state of mind and a better mood.
Furthermore, short-term exercise leads to an increased blood flow, enhancing oxygen and
nutrient delivery to various tissues throughout the body and improved cognitive function. Our muscles suffer a string of events that start with their tearing, continue with their repairment and end in a significant increase in strength, endurance and flexibility. Now, let’s analyse what happens to our bodies when we incorporate working out in our lives and we consistently engage in physical activity anywhere from once a week to every day.
Consistent exercise induce enduring adaptations that optimise overall health and mitigate the risk of cardiovascular problems, diabetes and obesity. Moreover, it promotes skeletal and muscular adaptations, increasing bone density and muscle mass. It has also been shown to reduce the amount of visceral fat that is exceptionally dangerous and could lead to all kinds of health issues. After a few weeks of consistent exercise, our brains are more in tune and this is shown in the clarity of our thinking and our ability to focus. As a result of the increased blood flow, our skin will slowly but surely receive a glow and we will have a more healthy appearance just by glancing for a few seconds in the nearest mirror. Crazy how many benefits working out can bring, right?!
So, next time we are about to put a wrong label on everything that means exercising, we
should consider just how beneficial it could be for our well-being and our overall health. Take care of your body with something as simple as a 10 minute workout and see the perks for yourself!
Image source: https://www.newsweek.com/how-exercise-can-help-you-reach-next-level-your-career-1627563
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