3 Things You Should Know About Working Out

​Immediate & Long-term Benefits of Exercise“Work out, it’s good for you!” is a saying you have heard people say all of your life. Doctors, teachers, coaches, and friends are always preaching exercising is a great way to stay healthy and feel better, but have you ever wondered exactly what that means? What is it about exercise that makes it so good for you? Researchers and people all over the country are realizing time and time again that working out has so many beneficial attributes. Some of these post-exercise effects occur immediately after you finish working up a sweat (which is super motivating for the people like me who love a quick win and that it feels satisfying right away), and others are benefits that occur over a long term period of habitual physical activity. These benefits can be seen in many areas, but some of the best effects are seen in the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of someone’s daily routine. Here are just a few highlights of the greatest benefits working out has to offer in relation to these three sectors of your life.

Physical Benefits 
Immediate Effect: Right after a good workout sesh, you immediately feel better all around. You might feel less bloated and lighter on your feet, but the blood also is pumped to your muscles so they will show better post-exercise.
Long-term Effect: Overtime, exercise will contribute to a slimmer waist. Not only do we all want a slimmer waist for aesthetics, but a slim waist is a huge determinant for good health. One study showed that women with higher waist sizes correlated positively with higher risk of heart disease and cancer, even when the higher waist size was found on someone with average body weight.1 A smaller waist not only looks good, but it leads to a longer life!
 
Mental Benefits 
Immediate Effect:  After a good sweat, especially early in the morning, you have the clear mind and motivation to rock your day and the tasks that need to be accomplished. Many people report after a good workout, they are able to focus better.
Long-term Effect: Working out may lead to you being ultimately more successful. 66 year old billionaire Richard Branson says that his number one tip for ultimate productivity is exercise. Even former President Obama and CEO of Apple Tim Cook are known for habitually finding time to exercise even with their busy schedules.2
 
Emotional Benefits
Immediate Effect:  You become happier after you exercise! Not only are you more inclined to smile and be in a good mood, but when you push through a hard workout, you get an immediate sense of accomplishment that can set the tone for the rest of your day.
Long-term Effect: Studies have proven working out reduces depression in the long term. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins that trigger a positive feeling in the body. That’s why exercise is suggested to treat mild to moderate depression. Exercise also improves sleep and self esteem which contribute to a good mood overall.3

Let's hear the long-term benefit that makes you the happiest in the comments. YOU ROCK!