The physical benefits are manifold. The exertion, by increasing blood flow through the body conditions our hearts, arteries and respiratory systems and by stimulating our circulation promotes cleansing of the blood and increased efficiency of all organ function. The muscular, immune and nervous systems are strengthened, cholesterol is reduced as kilojoules are burned. Women benefit when hormone and endocrine function is balanced easing premenstrual and menopausal symptoms. Once a basic level of fitness is achieved, the mental pleasure experienced is remarkable.
Deepened sleep becomes more peaceful with an outlet for the release of tension and agitation.
When exercising we can choose either the joy of comaraderie or to withdraw into those secluded parts of our spirit Creativity develops as we create space for novel ideas to appear or old ideas to take on a new meaning. Unfortunately most of us give up before this wondrous stage is reached. With all these benefits, some part of us resists, and dislikes the whole idea of exercise. We tell ourselves that we do not have time Take up the challenge and begin slowly says Bruce Fordyce. Too much too soon and too fast will lead to injury and loss of interest.