Want to feel better, have more energy, and even add years to your life? The answer is simple—exercise!

The health benefits of regular physical activity are undeniable. Everyone can benefit from exercise, regardless of age or physical ability. Need more reasons to get moving? Here are six ways exercise can lead to a happier, healthier you.

1. Exercise Controls Weight

Prevent Weight Gain and Maintain a Healthy Weight

Exercise helps prevent excess weight gain and supports weight loss. Engaging in physical activity burns calories, and the more intense the activity, the more calories you burn. Regular trips to the gym are great, but any amount of activity is better than none. Aim to get more active throughout the day. For example, opt for the stairs instead of the elevator or increase your household chores. Consistency is key!

2. Exercise Combats Health Conditions and Diseases

Prevent Heart Disease and High Blood Pressure

Dear Lykkers! Worried about heart disease or high blood pressure? Regular physical activity boosts HDL (the "good" cholesterol) and decreases unhealthy triglycerides, keeping your blood flowing smoothly. This can lower your risk of cardiovascular diseases.

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Exercise also helps prevent or manage a variety of health problems, including:

- Metabolic syndrome

- High blood pressure

- Type 2 diabetes

- Depression

- Anxiety

- Certain types of cancer

- Arthritis

- Falls

It can also improve cognitive function and lower the risk of death from all causes.

3. Exercise Improves Mood

Boost Your Emotional Well-being

Need an emotional lift or a way to unwind after a stressful day? A workout or brisk walk can help. Physical activity stimulates brain chemicals that can make you feel happier, more relaxed, and less anxious.

You might also feel better about your appearance and self-worth, boosting your confidence and improving your self-esteem.

4. Exercise Boosts Energy

Increase Your Stamina and Strength

Struggling with fatigue from grocery shopping or household chores? Regular physical activity improves muscle strength and enhances endurance. Exercise pumps oxygen and nutrients to your tissues, making your cardiovascular system more efficient. As your heart and lungs become healthier, you'll have more energy to tackle daily tasks.

5. Exercise Promotes Better Sleep

Enhance Sleep Quality

Struggling to fall asleep? Regular exercise can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper, more restful sleep. Just be sure not to exercise too close to bedtime, as it might leave you feeling too energized to sleep.

6. Exercise Can Be Fun — And Social!

Enjoy Activity with Family and Friends

Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. It can be fun! It offers opportunities to unwind, enjoy the outdoors, or engage in activities that bring you joy. Physical activity can also be a social experience, allowing you to connect with friends or family while having fun.

Try a dance class, hike the trails, or join a local sports team. Find an activity you enjoy and get moving. Bored? Switch things up or invite others to join.

Exercise to Feel Better and Have Fun

Exercise is a great way to improve your health, feel better, and have fun! For most healthy adults, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends the following exercise guidelines:

Aerobic Activity

Get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity. Alternatively, you can combine both moderate and vigorous activities. Aim to spread your exercise over several days of the week.

For even greater benefits, try to get 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. This can help with weight loss or weight maintenance. However, even small amounts of physical activity can make a difference. Short bursts of activity throughout the day can add up to big health benefits.

Strength Training

Engage in strength training exercises for all major muscle groups at least two times a week. One set of each exercise is enough for health and fitness benefits. Use a weight or resistance level that fatigues your muscles after 12 to 15 repetitions.

Consult a Healthcare Professional

Before starting a new exercise program, particularly if you have health concerns or haven’t exercised in a while, it’s important to check with a healthcare professional. This is especially important if you have chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or arthritis.