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From Staying Active to Reducing Risk of Diseases, Here’s Why Fitness & Health So Important For Us

Most people are busy with their daily routine, and they often tend to forgo health and fitness due to hectic schedules and workload pressure in metro and urban cities. Due to this, many people become overweight, suffer health problems and thereby hamper their quality of life. In order to lead a happy life and save money on medical expenses in the long run, it is advisable to stay fit by following a healthy diet and exercising regularly. The American Heart Association advises at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week, 30 minutes a day for five days a week.

Fitness is not just defined by being able to lift heavy weights or be an ultra-marathoner or having chiseled core. It simply means feeling good and being able to move without pain. Fitness can have different meanings for a different individual; however true fitness means being in shape to do the activities you want to do and live the lifestyle you wish to live. Fitness can simply be maintained by doing some simple bodyweight workout at home or cycling or just a daily brisk walk; you are not necessarily required to join an expensive gym to stay fit. However, if your goal is to have an aesthetic body, then you might have to take out time for the gym and perform weight training under supervision. Now let us look at the benefits of doing physical activity regularly.

Benefits of Physical Activity

Stay Active:

If you perform physical activity regularly, it can help you keep active both at work and home. If you do not perform any exercise, going for a trek with your friends or simply playing with your children in a park can be challenging. Hence, it is better to take out a very small time, say at least 30 minutes, from your daily routine to keep yourself fit.

Reduce Risk of Diseases:

Staying fit also helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity. Performing moderate to high-intensity aerobic exercise regularly improves heart health and also strengthens the immune system. If possible, also incorporate resistance training in your fitness routine, as it can help maintain muscle mass and makes bone stronger.

Improves Mental Health:

Regular exercise improves mental health by reducing depression, anxiety, and other mood changes. When we exercise, the body releases a feel-good hormone, known as ‘endorphins’ which help reduce stress. Exercising also increases the serotonin level, which thereby promotes good sleep.

Maintains Body Weight:

Performing physical activity on a daily basis will help burn calories and help you maintain a healthy weight, provided you follow a decent diet that includes protein-rich foods, green vegetables, fruits, dairy products and nuts. Performing moderate-intensity aerobic exercise also keeps visceral fat percentage low, fats in the abdominal area surrounding vital organs.

Reduce Risk of Injury:

If you exercise and perform physical activity in your daily routine, it will increase muscle strength, bone density, flexibility, and stability, reducing risk for and resilience to accidental injuries, especially as you get older.

Risks Associated With Over-Exercising

It is important to note that any exercise or physical activity is done in excess and beyond capacity is not suitable for the health. Good health is good sleep, a healthy diet, and regular exercising. It is important to note that the body needs rest for muscle growth and repair after exercise. When you workout in excess, it leads to overtraining syndrome, leading to atrophy (muscle-loss), muscle soreness, fatigue, weak immune system and even injury. Hence, it is advisable to exercise smartly under the supervision of trained professionals.

Conclusion

Health and fitness indeed play an integral role in the overall well-being of a person. Physically activity should not be kept as an option; it is preferable to make it a part of your daily routine. Apart from exercising regularly, try to avoid leading a sedentary lifestyle. Sleep early, do not sit in one place for more than one hour and reduce alcohol intake. Also, keep a check on your daily calorie count; eating in excess can lead to a calorie surplus state, leading to weight gain. Even if you are eating healthy food, check the portion as per your calorie requirement.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on December 17, 2021