Through the years we have all heard the benefits of exercise but with the busyness of life the list is lost, the tyranny of the urgent takes over, and exercise is last on the list of things to do. However, the urgent and pressing matters today have no concern for your future health and in the light of a health crisis become very unimportant. So here again are benefits of exercise and after reviewing this list ask yourself why wouldn’t I make time to exercise?

• Improve bone density and reduced risk of osteoporosis
• Improved cardiac function and reduced risk of heart disease and high blood pressure
• Improved resting metabolic rate and lasting weight loss
• Improved energy and confidence
• Improved immune function
• Improved glucose metabolism and reduced risk of diabetes
• Improved Lymphatic flow
• Improved immune function and detoxification
• Improved balance and flexibility
• Reduced fall and fracture risk
• Reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease
• Improved mood and overall reduction in depression and anxiety
• Improved sleep
• Improved mental clarity and concentration
• Reduced risk of colon and breast cancer (up to 60%)
• Maintenance of muscles mass and tone
• Reduced cholesterol
• Reduced risk of premature death
• Improved digestion and reduced constipation
• Improved endurance
• Reduces stress levels
• Improved performance at work
• Improved skin tone and complexion

Recently a Johns Hopkins study found that lifestyle activity is as effective as 30 minutes of exercise per day. The take home point is that you don’t have to find an hour a day to exercise, those 10 and 15 minute blocks can be used for walking, stretching, strength training, or other exercise options. The most important exercise decision is not what to do, but it is the decision to commit to find time to exercise. I encourage you to commit today to find time, even small blocks of time, during the week to move your body in any variety of exercise such as walking biking swimming, hiking, climbing, jogging, boot camp, lifting weights, doing push ups pull ups, yoga based exercise, Pilates, stretching and core work. Decide today and take action by going for a walk with a friend or spouse and share your new commitment to regular exercise. Have fun and check back here for new exercise ideas.