Exercise

2 Pages 481 Words

In recent years many people have become increasingly aware of the need for physical fitness. Almost everywhere people turn, whether it is to a newsstand, television or billboard, advice for guarding and improving health bombards them. Although much of this advice is commercially motivated by those eager to sell vitamins, natural foods and reducing gimmicks, some of it, especially that advocating a regular exercise program, requires serious attention. Such a program, if it consists of at least thirty minutes three times a week, and if a person’s doctor approves it, provides numerous benefits. Regular exercise releases tension, improves appearance, and increases stamina.
The first of these benfits, the release of tension, is immediate. Tension builds in the body because of an over accumulation of adrenaline produced by stress, anxiety, or fear. Studies show and agree that performing gymnastic exercises or participating in an active sport such as tennis or volleyball for thirty minutes releases tension. If a person swims, jogs or rides a bicycle for half that time, he or she should sleep better at night and have a better personality the next day. In addition, after the release of tension, petty irritations and frustrations should be less troubling. Planned physical exercise can eliminate or at least control tension.
An improved appearance is a second benefit of regular exercise. Exercise takes at least a month or longer to show its results in a trimmer, firmer figure. A person who is fifteen pounds overweight for instance may be able during this time to burn away most excess fat and to tighten muscles, thereby reshaping the physique. Having improved muscle tone and even posture, he or she will wear clothes more attractively and comfortably. Combined with a sensible diet, an exercise program will also improve a person’s skin tone. This improved appearance will provide confidence and favorably impress others.
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