How Can Fitness Benefit You ?

When done properly, there are a multitude of benefits associated with fitness. In fact, we could write an entire book on all of the benefits, but we'll simplify it and key on some of the important points. There are many more reasons aside from feeling better, being energized, reducing stress and having more confidence.

There are three elements that may be included with all approved fitness programs. When performed with the right exercises, completed with proper form and done with the appropriate intensity, it can yield amazing results. Keep in mind you do not have to workout like a professional athlete, sometimes just simple exercises may be just as beneficial. The three elements are cardio, strength training and stretching.

Cardio

The numerous benefits of cardio fitness are related to a variety of responses to aerobic exercise. Physiologic responses to training help decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease by favorably modifying risk factors. Here are some reported benefits of cardio exercise:

Health benefits
Reduction in blood pressure
Increased good cholesterol
Decreased total cholesterol
Decreased body fat stores
Decreased clinical symptoms of anxiety, tension and depression
Increased heart function
Decreased resting heart rate
Increased heart volume
Increased maximum oxygen consumption
Increased blood flow to active muscles
Increased lung diffusion capacity
Increased mobilization & utilization of fat
Decreased anxiety & depression
Decreased incidence of some cancers

Fitness

Strength training is the process of exercising with progressively heavier resistance for the purpose of strengthening the muscular system. It is a major part of transforming your body to the look you want. Regular strength training results in the following positive benefits:

Increased muscle fiber size
Increased muscle strength
Increased tendon strength
Increased bone strength
Increased ligament strength

These beneficial changes within the muscular tissue have a profound influence on our physical capacity, physical appearence, metabolic function and injury risk.

Stretching

Few would argue that flexibility is an important component of fitness and a critical factor in achieving peak physical potential. However, flexibility often is overlooked or misused. It is important for you to include flexibility training in all your fitness programs, especially since recent studies show that injuries occur as a result of tight or stiff muscles. The benefits of safe range of motion stretching include the following:

Increased physical efficiency and performance
Decreased risk of injury
Increased blood supply & nutrients to joint structures
Allow greater freedom of movement & decelerate joint degenerative processes
Increases neuromuscular coordination
Improved muscular balance & postural awareness
Decreased risk of low-back pain
Reduced stress
Enhanced enjoyment




*Excerpts from American Coucil on Exercise, Personal Trainer Manuel, Chapters 7, 8 & 10
The Resource for Fitness Professionals