Don't exercise? Here are 5 reasons why you should!

Do you know that over 60% of Americans do not exercise and are considered overweight? And of that statistic, do you know that almost half of them are women? Don’t be part of this statistic, here are 5 reasons why you should put on your sneakers and start exercising today.

1. Stronger Bones

After the age of 35 the only effective way to maintain bone strength and density is through weight bearing exercises such as running, walking, and strength training. Incorporating these exercises into your workout will help prevent osteoporosis and bone loss associated with aging.

2. Lose that Baby Weight

Lisa Druxman, MA, creator of Stroller Strides and author of the book “Lean Mommy”, states that new moms need to incorporate exercise before and after they deliver. Lisa says, “Women who exercise during their pregnancy are more likely to gain less weight and take it off faster than women who do not exercise.” Exercise can also have positive effects on labor including shorter and less painful childbirth. Regular exercise can also help combat the “baby blues” and postpartum depression.

3. Burn calories while watching TV

Incorporating strength training into your exercise routine will allow you to burn more calories at rest. Strength training gives you more lean muscle mass which keeps your metabolism higher. With a higher metabolism, you will continue to burn more calories long after your workout is over.

4. No more “Mommy Brain”

Performing aerobic exercise has been found to increase the temporal and prefrontal cortices in the brain. These areas control functions involving memory, multitasking, planning, and paying attention.

5. Fight Breast Cancer

1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer in their lifetime. Recent studies have shown that women who do vigorous activities such as swimming, jogging and aerobics 5 days a week have reduced their risk of breast cancer. The researchers also believe that household activities such as cleaning and gardening are also good physical activities in protecting one against the disease

You now have 5 good reasons why you should get out there and exercise. Take time for yourself and try a new fitness class, find a workout buddy to exercise with, or take a walk with your children. Whatever you do, just get out there and do it. By just spending a little time each day being active, not only are you are staying healthy for your family but most importantly YOUSELF.