The Importance of Fitness Exercise

As with any new activity or routine, you must consult your healthcare provider before beginning a fitness exercise program. It is very important that you do not overdo it or start too quickly. By following a few guidelines, you can start your fitness exercise routine and gradually increase the length and intensity of your exercise sessions. There are several reasons why you need to get the right amount of exercise for your age, fitness level, and overall health. Continue reading to learn more about the importance of a proper fitness exercise plan.

Researchers have shown that adolescents who engage in high levels of physical activity perform better in school over two years. Physical exercise not only improves health, it has also been found to improve memory. Endocanabinoids, which are produced during intensive physical exercise, increase synaptic plasticity. Studies also show that school programs involving physical activity can reduce the risk of neurodegeneration. Researchers have identified five components of physical fitness: muscular strength, cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, and body composition. Men should aim for a body fat content of less than 17 percent while women should aim for a percentage of less than 24 percent.

Cardio-respiratory fitness refers to the ability of the heart and blood vessels to supply oxygen to skeletal muscles during sustained physical activity. Regular exercise improves the efficiency of the cardiovascular system by increasing the number of small arteries in trained skeletal muscles. It also improves the respiratory system, increasing the oxygen distributed to body tissue. A 2005 Cochrane review found that increasing cardiorespiratory fitness reduced the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and type 2 diabetes.

Physical activities include brisk walking, water aerobics, dancing, and heavy yard work. For a more strenuous workout, try push-ups, brisk walking, tennis doubles, or bodyweight conditioning. Stretching, resistance exercise, and yoga all combine to improve your cardiovascular health. Fitness exercises must be accompanied by a physical exam and a diet plan. The best exercises are individualized to your level and goals.

A pre-exercise screening helps determine if you are at risk for a variety of health problems while exercising. This is a safety net for the user, and helps determine if the benefits of fitness exercise outweigh any risks. An adult can print out a pre-exercise screening tool and discuss the results with their healthcare provider before attempting a new fitness exercise program. A physician may advise a different course of action.

Social science and sociological studies have advanced our understanding of exercise. Studies published in the mid-1980s explored social status as a predictor of exercise behavior. Later studies explored the social processes associated with exercise, including how exercise affects job stress. Further research on social factors and the benefits of physical activity is needed to establish a stronger link between exercise and social processes. Once the relationship between sociological research and the benefits of fitness exercise is established, the benefits of these programs can be seen.