1. Seven Benefits of Exercise By Katy Henderson and Christie Leigh Hill

2. Exercise Performance of some activity in order to develop or maintain physical fitness and overall health

3. Strengthens Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems Lowers the buildup of plaque in arteries by increasing HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol) Decreases the concentration of LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol) Prevents the onset of high blood pressure Lowers blood pressure Promotes rhythmic, deep breathing by developing greater capacity in lungs Cardiovascular Respiratory

4. Keeps Bones and Muscles Strong Prevents the bone weakening disease osteoporosis Preserves bone mass and may even increase bone density Improves balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls Builds muscle mass Bones Muscles

5. Manages Weight Helps to achieve or maintain a healthy weight by burning calories Reduce body fat by burning more calories than consumed. Reduces risk of obesity Eases pressure on bones and joints, preventing conditions such as arthritis

6. Prevents and Manages Diabetes Coupled with a healthy diet, exercising can prevent and manage type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is caused by a resistance to the glucose transport effect of insulin on cells. Helps insulin work better and can lower blood sugar Reduces blood sugar by increasing sensitivity to insulin

7. Eases Depression and Manages Pain and Stress Activates the neurotransmitters, serotonin and norepinephrine, associated with avoiding depression Depression can be experienced when serotonin and norepinephrine are out of sync. Exercise may help synchronize these chemicals. Stimulates the production of beta-endorphins, which produce feelings of well- being

8. Reduces Risk of Certain Types of Cancer Colon, prostate, uterine lining, and breast cancer can be prevented by exercise. Helps digested food move quickly through the colon, thereby preventing colon cancer. Lowers risk of breast and uterine cancers by reducing body fat and decreasing estrogen production. Researchers are uncertain how exercise prevents prostate cancers.

9. Helps to Relax and Sleep Better Sleep helps maintain physical and mental health. Moderate exercise at least three hours before bedtime can help a person relax and sleep better.

10. In Conclusion, exercise… 1 Strengthens Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems 2 Keeps Bones and Muscles Strong 3 Manages Weight 4 Prevents and Manages Diabetes 5 Eases Depression and Manages Pain and Stress 6 Reduces Risk of Certain Types of Cancer 7 Helps to Relax and Sleep Better

11. To Ensure Optimal Health Get to it and exercise!