‘I’ll start working out one day.” This is something many of us murmur to ourselves when we are all by our lonesome, after stuffing ourselves into a coma at that incredibly irresistible all-you-can-eat buffet.
Or, perhaps, when we are looking in the mirror and realize our clothes have mysteriously shrunk. “This can no longer go on,” continues the internal dialogue. Then we put such plans in the back burner and forget about them completely.
When beginning a workout program, the first step is most often the most difficult to take. To get started, we have to light that fire from under us and be convinced that we need to start working out. Setting aside the aesthetics, fitness most certainly goes beyond vanity and encompasses many aspects of our lives.
Here are five reasons you should make that commitment to start working out. Right here, right now.
• It will make you happier– Happiness and exercise? How could you possibly be happy waking up before sunrise and dragging yourself to the gym? Exercise releases endorphins, or what we often refer to as “happy” hormones. That inexplicable rush of happiness from physical exertion, such as lifting weights or running, is the result of an endorphin rush, triggering a pleasure response in our brains. That rush of exhilaration and euphoria from the release of endorphins by the brain is just an exercise session away.
• You will look better—Of course, this will be one of the foremost reasons most of us will begin working out in the first place. An effective workout plan, when combined with a proper diet, will help us shed unwanted fat and build lean muscle mass. On top of that, working up a good sweat will expel trapped oil and dirt from our skin. A good exercise session, in a way, is like getting a facial. Smoother, glowing skin, plus a lean, mean physique. That may be all the reason to jump in.
• A more energized you—Yes, exercise will tire you out, and perhaps leave you gasping for air—in the short term. And when you are exhausted from a day spiked with a workout regimen, you may be able to sleep, better. Exercise has been known to improve quality of sleep making us more energetic upon waking. Cardiovascular exercise also strengthens the heart, training it to work more efficiently. When this happens, we get more oxygen to the brain, as well as our other organs. So yes, in the long term exercise will make us more energized versions of ourselves. And lifting weights strengthen our muscles making us more capable of moving things around with ease should the need arise.
• Better defense against sickness—In the long run, light to moderate exercise may increase the white blood cell (WBC) count of our bodies. WBCs are the cells that fight infection and disease that enter our system. More WBCs mean more good guys ganging up on the nasty bacteria that may make us ill. Add to that, physical activity may help expel bacteria from our lungs and airways.
• You will inspire others—The first four items listed above are all about you. This one is about spreading the fitness vibe. Now once you have started working out and eventually work your way to looking the way you have envisioned yourself, people will take notice. Friends, family and coworkers. They will be asking you questions, they will take a closer look at themselves and, with your prodding, they may embark on their respective fitness journeys and eventually reap the benefits of working out. So yes, one reason for you to start—and you will realize this later on—is so you can be a positive influence,and give encouragement to those around you.
These are just five out of a million reasons you should get started. Choose day one over one day, and never look back.