Lack of activity maximizes the effects of disease and the aging process on a healthy body after many years. Although many people begin exercise programs, few consistently maintain them to receive their long-term benefits. Finding a way to make regular exercise a part of everyone's daily life is the goal to gaining health benefits.
Studies show that regular exercise helps prevent or treat various health problems.
Some well known benefits include heart disease prevention and lowering of cholesterol levels. With aging, the bones become thinner, and muscle mass is reduced. Women can help to prevent bone loss, and the elderly can decrease risk for hip fractures through regular physical activity. Exercise also is essential in weight loss and can prevent or improve the onset of adult diabetes. Lastly, exercise helps with stress management, self-image and depression.