When you decide to pursue an exercise program or weight loss plan, your motivations might range from improving your appearance to following doctor’s orders. Those are certainly good reasons to improve your health. But for many people, more specific knowledge can be empowering. What exactly are the benefits of this lifestyle change?
As you work to improve your cardio fitness, these motivations can help you focus on your end goal.
Lower risk of death from heart disease. Cardiorespiratory fitness is one of the most reliable predictors of heart disease. In fact, those with lower cardio fitness face a 56 percent higher chance of death from heart disease. Even just moderate improvements in cardio fitness can drastically reduce that risk.
Prevent diabetes. Lower cardio fitness is also a reliable indicator of insulin resistance and the development of type 2 diabetes. If you know you’re at risk of diabetes, addressing your cardio fitness now can help you avoid the disease.
Soothe anxiety. Cardio exercise is known to combat anxiety and panic attacks. It works in the moment but also as an ongoing preventive, lowering generalized anxiety levels as your cardio fitness program progresses.
Beat depression. Research has uncovered similar effects upon depression. Those with better cardio fitness suffer depression at significantly lower rates.
Better sleep. Regular cardio exercise helps you to fall asleep faster, stay asleep, and suffer fewer sleep disturbances.
Reduce belly fat. We already know that a regular exercise routine can support a weight loss plan. But cardio fitness specifically leads to lower levels of fat storage in the belly, where it is most dangerous to carry. Lower belly fat might appeal to you for numerous reasons, including reduced risk of many serious diseases.
Remember, you don’t need to be a marathon runner to achieve better cardio fitness. A 30-minute walk each day makes a significant difference to both your fitness and health, while supporting a weight loss plan. If you need more tips on healthy exercise or disease prevention, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.
