Exercise vs. Medicine

By Shelly Disotelle

Finesse In Training

More Weight Control, Nutrition & Exercise Articles

Exercise vs. Medicine

Regular physical activity can help ward off a host of diseases such as diabetes, cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis, heart disease and mild depression. In addition to disease prevention, you can expect to have greater focus and more energy, less headaches, less accidents due to falling, better sleep, less stress, weight loss, and in general, an overall better quality of life.

So, why would anyone risk having to take medication and the possible side effects over exercise and all of the benefits?

The answer lies within you. We have become accustomed to a sedentary lifestyle. We sit at our desks, hire out our yard work, have our homes cleaned for us and are too tired to walk the dog. Instead, we should be embracing any opportunity to move.

Maybe time is a factor or lack of motivation. It could also be that you are afraid or don't know how to get started. We all make time for what is important. If there is a will, there is a way. Seeking the advice and skills of a personal trainer could be the motivation you need to begin the journey toward a healthy lifestyle.

How can exercise really help prevent all of these diseases and make our lives better? Studies have shown that exercise can actually have the same effect as medicine. The science behind why exercise is helpful has to do with things such as stabilizing blood sugar and normalizing insulin.

We have all probably heard that exercise makes your heart stronger, can lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Exercise can also make your bones stronger. The release of endorphins (feel good hormones) during exercise can have a tremendous effect on mood and stress.

Is it easier to take medication? For some, that answer may be yes, but the positives you gain with exercise far out way the possibility of developing more health concerns that might be prevented with an active lifestyle.