For most people who are looking to begin an exercise program, their main goal is lose weight and look better. While that can be a motivator in and of itself, sometimes the thought of putting forth the energy to get moving is still enough of a deterrent to keep a person on the couch. But the best motivation to get up and moving is when we know just how much exercise benefits us physically and mentally. If you are having trouble beginning and/or maintaining an exercise program, take a look at all that exercise does for the human body. When you approach physical activity with these benefits in mind, they hopefully will be a catalyst to propel you to get up and move.

Regular exercise can:

• Reduce the risk of developing heart disease
• Reduce high blood pressure or the risk of developing high blood pressure
  
• Reduce high cholesterol or the risk of developing high cholesterol
• Reduce the risk of developing various cancers
• Reduce the risk of developing diabetes or help control existing diabetes
• Build and maintain healthy muscles, bones, and joints
• Improve mental well-being by reducing stress, depression and anxiety
• Enhanced performance in work and recreation
  
• Maintain and improve sleep patterns

Exercise is a gift you give your body. Your body was designed to work and move, and once you get in the habit of working out, your body will miss those occasionally skipped sweat sessions and you will notice the difference in the way you feel.