Sometimes, pushing yourself to exercise is hard. You just got a new job as an HR consultant for a company in freefall, so you really don’t have a lot of free time. Or you scored a sweet deal on a piece from prime Ottawa real estate but didn’t realize how chilly the Canadian climate would be. Or maybe you’re like me: lazy.
That’s okay. We all have our reasons for not wanting to work out, foremost of which is that a vigorous jog and a dozen spicy chicken wings will both make you sweat but only one will occasionally give you a cramp. That said, those wings will do other things to your body that are not so fun, while making time to exercise every day has many documented positive effects.
You’ll Feel Better
The first time I went for a run, I thought my lungs were going to pop like a silver “Happy Birthday” balloon with a clipart cupcake on one side and a kitten wearing a party hat on the other. I did not feel exhilarated or refreshed. I felt like I was being murdered.
It’s never easy in the beginning, even if you already exercise semi-regularly and are in generally decent shape. Going from working out some of the time to working out every single day is a big jump. But it does get better. In fact, you’ll be surprised at how quickly it gets better. And once everything clicks, it will definitely be worth it.
No more breathlessness going upstairs. No more sore wrists opening pickle jars. Daily exercise improves strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Simply put, it’ll put a spring in your step.
You’ll Look Better
Most people would like to get into better shape, and not just for purely wellness-related reasons. Sometimes, you just want to feel good looking at yourself in the mirror. And while only confidence and being comfortable with yourself can ultimately do that, for many people (though not everyone) daily exercise is a major contributing factor in achieving that.
Take it from someone who’s struggled with weight issues, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to fit into a smaller pair of pants or a sleeker style dress. Alternatively, if you feel too small, a good workout regimen can help you build a little bulk and take control of your physique.
Everyone should be able to wear a bathing suit at the beach and be happy with themselves. For some that means six-pack abs and toned thighs. For others, it just means being able to see their toes. Daily exercise could be the key to you’ve been looking for. Maybe. Maybe not. Only you can make that call.
You’ll Think Better
No, I’m not saying daily exercise will turn you into the genius who finally masters cold fusion (although, hey, you never know). I’m saying that making time for regular activity isn’t just good for the body. It’s good for the mind, too.
Sure, feeling and looking healthier are great ego boosts. But that’s only half of it. Did you know that daily exercise has also been shown to help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, or that it can help regulate poor sleeping habits if you struggle with insomnia? It’s even been known to improve memory, increase energy, and boost libido.
You heard it here, folks: exercise will make you better at sexercise. If that isn’t enough to convince you daily exercise is worth the occasional sore muscle, I don’t know what will.