Participating in regular physical activity benefits all physiological systems contained in the human body. Although it seems like the body was especially customized for sitting, lounging, laying down or simply doing nothing at all, our bodies actually demand a certain amount of physical activity or rapid degeneration in the form of obesity, hypertension and diabetes inevitably occurs. Moving the body vigorously not only exercises the heart muscle but also promotes the deliverance of oxygen-rich blood to all parts of the body, especially the brain.
1. Physical activity benefits the brain
Nearly 20 percent of the energy produced by internal metabolic processes meant to fuel the body is absorbed by the brain. This smallish, two-pound organ that resembles a soft, graying chunk of cauliflower contains neurons, neurotransmitters and signaling axons responsible for all of your cognitive needs. Recent neuroscience research into the effects of regular physical activity on the brain has found that:
- Exercise enhances functioning of the hippocampus, a component of the brain vital for learning, working memory and long-term memory, which leads doctors to suggest exercising may delay or even prevent the onset of age-related dementias.
- Increases levels of norepinephrine in the brain, an adrenal gland hormone supporting neuronal communication, mood elevation and energy.
- Contributes to neurogenesis throughout life, or ability of the brain to generate new nerve cells
- Promotes positive feelings by stimulating the release of endorphins. As chemicals containing analgesic/mood enhancing properties, endorphins are responsible for giving us that euphoric, highly energized feeling following a jogging or exercise session
2. Physical activity burns calories and helps maintain a healthy weight
Serious health issues result when the heart, lungs and other organs are forced to work overtime in an obese body. Chronic and debilitating medical conditions that commonly impair the ability of an overweight body to function properly include:
- Type II diabetes/metabolic syndrome
- Hypertension
- High cholesterol/atherosclerosis
- Heart disease
- Breast and colon cancer
3. Physical activity strengthens bones and may prevent osteoporosis
Bone health relies on cells called osteoblasts that provide all our bones with sufficient amounts of calcium, a nutrient necessary for the formation of strong bones. During physical activity, these osteoblasts increase their rate of calcium release because the bones utilized during vigorous exercise needs extra blasts of calcium. Engaging in regular exercise as we age is an excellent way to reinforce bone density and avert the development of osteoporosis, a bone disease causing bones to become brittle, weak and easily fractured.
4. Physical activity boosts immune system functioning
A vital component of the immune and circulatory system is the lymphatic system. Comprised of a large network of lymphatic vessels carrying lymph fluid throughout the body, the lymph system is responsible for transporting white blood cells in and out of lymph nodes when pathogens infect the body. Physical movements are necessary to keep lymph fluids “pumping” through the system so that an infection can be immediately attacked and eliminated.
5. Physical activity may extend your life by as much as 15 years
Just as automobiles last longer when consistently given tune-ups, the body also continues operating free of mechanical problems when allowed to participate in regularly physical activity. Medical conditions caused by a sedentary lifestyle may significantly lower your quality of life or shorten your life altogether.
This article on Regular Physical Activity was provided by www.ciscoathletic.com. Cisco supplies handmade custom sports uniforms that are manufactured in the United States.
