If I could write up one standard prescription for all patients, it would be simple to read, include only one word, and would be universally understood but generally ignored. That word, you ask? Exercise!
I don’t care what journal or magazine you read, talk show you watch, or morning news program you listen to, they all pretty much report that some form of exercise is good for you.
Exercise has become a big money-making enterprise. Think of all the celebrities who have their own videos or exercise clothing lines. And let’s not forget about the accessory gadgets such as headphones, wireless ear buds, and step trackers. I get a kick out of all the patients I see who own fitness monitors but don’t exercise. I guess they use them as a fashion statement.
Nevertheless, there are some substantial reasons to step away from the couch and television so that you may add movement to your day.
Reason #1: It prevents cancer. Nothing scares people more than that six-letter word. Countless research studies have shown that exercise reduces your risk of colon, breast and prostate cancer. Matter of fact, per the World Cancer Research Fund, about 20 percent of all cancers in the U.S. are related to lack of physical activity, obesity, too much alcohol, and poor nutrition. To me, this reason alone should be a “drop the mic” moment. (Unsure about this latter reference, consult a teenager.)
Reason #2: You will be happier. Exercise improves your mood, simple as that. In their 2006 study on exercise and mental health, Drs. Sharma, Madaan, and Petty reported that aerobic exercises, including jogging, swimming, cycling, walking, gardening, and dancing, have been proven to reduce anxiety and depression. The rationale behind this effect is believed to be related to the increased blood flow to the brain during exercise. And to think people want to eliminate physical education from schools due to budget constraints, but they end up having to hire more security guards because of the excessive behavior problems. Makes no sense, right?
Reason #3: It improves your self-esteem. No one enjoys that feeling in the morning when trying to dress for work and nothing fits. Breasts are bulging from the button-down shirt and the clasp on those pants are about to pop off at any moment. Exercise along with sensible eating will help you achieve your healthy weight. When you feel good about your appearance, you are more confident and you feel sexier! Feeling sexier then leads to Reason #4.
Reason #4: It improves your sex life. As we get more birthdays, men begin to have problems with obtaining and maintaining an erection and women have issues with low libido and vaginal dryness. Exercise, on the other hand, improves blood flow to those vital organs “down yonder.” Imagine what improved strength, endurance and stamina could do for your sex life? Intriguing, isn’t it?
There are countless other reasons to exercise such as improved blood sugars, improved blood pressures, and overall improved well-being. The data is out there. Exercise is good for you. Like the Nike slogans of years past, Just do it!
Denise Hooks-Anderson, M.D., is associate professor at SLUCare Family Medicine. Email yourhealthmatters@stlamerican.com.
