It's In the Evidence!

More and more research points to the fact that physical activity is the number one contributor to longevity, adding extra years to our life - even if you don't start exercising until your senior years.  But getting active is not just about adding years to your life, it's about adding life to your years.  It's about adding more movement and activity to your day, even in small ways.  No matter your age or physical condition, it's never too late to get your body moving, boost your health and outlook, and improve how you age.

Physical Health Benefits:  Helps you maintain or lose weight.  As metabolism naturally slows with age, maintaining a healthy weight is a challenge.  Exercise helps increase metabolism and builds muscle mass, helping to burn more calories.  Reduces the impact of illness and chronic disease.  People who exercise tend to have improved immune and digestive function, better blood pressure and bone density and a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, obesity, heart disease, osteoporosis and certain cancers.

Mental Health Benefits:  Improves sleep.  Quality sleep is vital for your overall health.  Regular activity can help you fall asleep more quickly, sleep more deeply and wake feeling more energetic and refreshed.  Boots mood and self-confidence.  Exercise relieves stress and the happy chemicals produced (endorphins) can help reduce the feelings of sadness, depression or anxiety.  Getting involved in a group exercise class provides social connection and a sense of community.  Does amazing things for the brain.  Exercise can help brain functions like task-switching and creativity and can help improve focus, prevent cognitive decline and dementia.