Be Fit. Live Better.
We’d all like to entertain the idea that the missing link to eternal longevity is drinking a chocolate shake from the fountain of youth. Perhaps some of us may compliment the chocolate shake with a supreme pizza. Ether way, this idea will always stay fantastical. We now know that a regular exercise routine and a healthy diet are two main staples for a long and healthy life.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that adults get at least two hours of moderately intense aerobic exercise every week. The current reality is that less than half actually do so. Gym memberships skyrocket after the New Year, then plummet after February 1st. Why is this? Quite frankly, people get lazy. We get disinterested and unmotivated when we don’t see results right away. More often than not, we “exercise” excuses instead of their bodies. “I’m too busy.” “I just can’t find the time,” “There isn’t a ‘good’ gym close to my house.” I’ve heard it all. Excuses in every aspect of life will not lead us on a positive path. it’s time to throw away excuses and start DOING. Do research on local gyms in your area. Setup a time to speak with a personal trainer. Most gyms offer a complimentary fitness assessment upon joining. Utilize the plethora of wellness support around you and make a change today.
Here are 5 amazing benefits of joining gym:
- Motivation. Sometimes the hardest part of exercising is getting started. Gyms offer an array of assessments, classes, equipment, trainers, and specialties that can help you discover what motivates you and what exercise you will enjoy. Joining a gym forces you to get off the couch and get into a fitness routine of your choice. Many people also find that paying for a gym membership is motivation in itself. When you spend your hard earned money and time on a gym membership, getting great workouts in during the week becomes a must.
- Health. We cannot overlook the fact that over 1/3 of adults in the U.S. are obese. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to an increased risk of developing health conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Exercising regularly is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve health. Even if you are not trying to lose weight, exercising can help increase energy, enhance your mood, strengthen muscles and bones, and help you sleep better.
- Support. For many people, reaching health and fitness goals are challenges that require the support of others. Gyms are the perfect place to seek support of personal trainers, exercise class leaders, and even people who are working to reach similar goals. When you’re surrounded by people who are taking control of their health and fitness, you’ll be more motivated to do the same.
- Meeting new people. When you join a gym, you’re going to meet new people. Everyone is there for similar reasons; whether to get fit, relieve stress, or just find new friends, gyms are a great place to socialize.
- Happiness. If you have ever worked out regularly before, you probably noticed how much better you felt and generally happier you were. Scientific studies suggest that there is a direct link between exercise and happiness. Exercising releases “happy” chemicals in your brain called dopamine that help you feel pleasure and happiness. Exercise has also been proven to ease anxiety and help with depression.
