advantage of physical activity essay

The Benefits of Physical Activity Essay

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Introduction

Advantages of exercise, works cited.

College students often face myriad challenges in their studies such as drug abuse, obesity, terminal diseases and psychological problems. Students with health complications are disadvantaged in academic activities. Most students often seek medical treatment for physical and psychological problems. However, most of them are oblivious of the fact that they can avoid many health complications by performing regular exercises (Hardman and Stensel 12-13).

Although students engage in various activities such as watching movies, reading novels, shopping and interacting with each other, most of them disregard physical activity as form of leisure. Therefore, students who dislike physical activities such as games and sports should change their attitude because they risk having physical and psychological challenges including poor academic performance. This essay discusses the benefits of conducting physical exercises.

Medical research indicates that physical exercise has the following benefits to the wellbeing of an individual. Many college students are grappling with the challenge of being overweight because they have poor diets. Although there are various approaches of dealing with obesity, conducting regular bodily exercise is arguably the best solution to this challenge. Physical activities facilitate the burning of extra body fats, which accumulate in the body overtime. Therefore, regular engagement in physical activities is the most sustainable way of managing weight loss. Although losing weight is as difficult as paying debts it can be overcome through dedication and consistent exercises (Ginis and Petruzzello 72-73).

Most heart complications can be avoided or retracted by regular exercise because the heart is one of the body organs that need to be active to function efficiently. Physical activities can repair impaired blood vessels by eliminating bad fats that clog them. Exercise also relaxes arteries; hence, making the heart to function properly (Hardman and Stensel 23-24). Moreover, simple activities such as walking, running, jogging and swimming can prevent or mitigate hypertension.

Intensive academic tasks often fatigue many college students. Prolonged fatigue leads to lack of concentration in class and depression. Although many people often use tranquilizers to alleviate fatigue, they only feel better for a short duration. Interestingly, body exercise is the best therapy for fatigue and depression because it relaxes the brain and boosts self-esteem (Ginis and Petruzzello 57-65).

Respiratory complications such as common colds and asthma can be mitigated by engaging in activities that generate body heat. When the body is warm, the respiratory tract functions well. Moreover, exercise boosts body immunity for several minutes. Health specialists often propose swimming as one of the most viable exercises for asthmatic individuals.

Diabetes is one of the complicated diseases that is increasingly affecting the youth since most of them have adopted sedentary lifestyles. Activity lessens cholesterol and insulin as well as weight loss, which can enable diabetics to avoid further complications such as circulatory disorders.

“Research findings by Seattle Cancer Research Centre shows that approximately 35 percent of cancer deaths are linked to overweight inactivity” (Marcus 15). Exercise facilitates digestion and elimination of toxic substances from the body, which can trigger irregular growth of cells. In addition, “high concentrations of oestrogen hormones that often trigger breast malignancy among women can be eliminated easily through physical activity” (Marcus 89).

Many people use beauty-enhancing products to make them look young and beautiful, but such products are prepared using lethal chemicals that can cause side effects such as skin disorders. Exercise is a good alternative to be young and beautiful; for example, young overweight individuals can easily be mistaken to be adults. Exercise facilitates transmission of blood in the body and mitigates the danger of stroke.

Research findings reveal that active individuals are 27 percent less likely to suffer from stroke compared to the sedentary people (Hardman and Stensel 89-90). Moreover, the brain works better when it receives constant flow of oxygenated blood and this process can be enhanced by exercise. “A research finding by the University of Illinois showed that activity stimulates the growth of nerve cells in the memory component of the brain” (Hardman and Stensel 35).

Medical studies reveal that active individuals experience good sex life because they have better blood transmission, which enhances libido and performance of their sexual organs. Furthermore, the relaxing effect of exercise on the brain facilitates sexual activity. Conversely, since the brain influences sexual activity, depressed people do not enjoy sex. “The American Council of Exercise points out that a physically active individual has natural Viagra” (Marcus 68). Last, sleeping can be enhanced by activity because it alleviates headaches, stress and insomnia. Exercise also helps in activating endorphins, which alleviate pain, and improve emotional health in the body.

This essay has revealed the benefits of engaging in activity. Therefore, it is evident that majority of health complications can be evaded through regular activity. Consequently, people should drastically change their attitude towards bodily activities because they are beneficial to their mental and physical well-being. People should be more creative to make bodily activities interesting. Therefore, it can be concluded that activity provides good therapy to the human body.

Ginis, Kathleen and Steven Petruzzello. The Psychology of Exercise: Integrating Theory and Practice. New York: Holcomb Hathaway, 2010. Print.

Hardman, Adrianne and David Stensel. Physical Activity and Health: The Evidence Explained. New York: Routledge, 2009. Print.

Marcus, Bess. Motivating People to Be Physically Active. New York: Human Kinetics, 2008. Print.

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Physical Activity Is Good for the Mind and the Body

Health and Well-Being Matter is the monthly blog of the Director of the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.

Everyone has their own way to “recharge” their sense of well-being — something that makes them feel good physically, emotionally, and spiritually even if they aren’t consciously aware of it. Personally, I know that few things can improve my day as quickly as a walk around the block or even just getting up from my desk and doing some push-ups. A hike through the woods is ideal when I can make it happen. But that’s me. It’s not simply that I enjoy these activities but also that they literally make me feel better and clear my mind.

Mental health and physical health are closely connected. No kidding — what’s good for the body is often good for the mind. Knowing what you can do physically that has this effect for you will change your day and your life.

Physical activity has many well-established mental health benefits. These are published in the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans and include improved brain health and cognitive function (the ability to think, if you will), a reduced risk of anxiety and depression, and improved sleep and overall quality of life. Although not a cure-all, increasing physical activity directly contributes to improved mental health and better overall health and well-being.

Learning how to routinely manage stress and getting screened for depression are simply good prevention practices. Awareness is especially critical at this time of year when disruptions to healthy habits and choices can be more likely and more jarring. Shorter days and colder temperatures have a way of interrupting routines — as do the holidays, with both their joys and their stresses. When the plentiful sunshine and clear skies of temperate months give way to unpredictable weather, less daylight, and festive gatherings, it may happen unconsciously or seem natural to be distracted from being as physically active. However, that tendency is precisely why it’s so important that we are ever more mindful of our physical and emotional health — and how we can maintain both — during this time of year.

Roughly half of all people in the United States will be diagnosed with a mental health disorder at some point in their lifetime, with anxiety and anxiety disorders being the most common. Major depression, another of the most common mental health disorders, is also a leading cause of disability for middle-aged adults. Compounding all of this, mental health disorders like depression and anxiety can affect people’s ability to take part in health-promoting behaviors, including physical activity. In addition, physical health problems can contribute to mental health problems and make it harder for people to get treatment for mental health disorders.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought the need to take care of our physical and emotional health to light even more so these past 2 years. Recently, the U.S. Surgeon General highlighted how the pandemic has exacerbated the mental health crisis in youth .

The good news is that even small amounts of physical activity can immediately reduce symptoms of anxiety in adults and older adults. Depression has also shown to be responsive to physical activity. Research suggests that increased physical activity, of any kind, can improve depression symptoms experienced by people across the lifespan. Engaging in regular physical activity has also been shown to reduce the risk of developing depression in children and adults.

Though the seasons and our life circumstances may change, our basic needs do not. Just as we shift from shorts to coats or fresh summer fruits and vegetables to heartier fall food choices, so too must we shift our seasonal approach to how we stay physically active. Some of that is simply adapting to conditions: bundling up for a walk, wearing the appropriate shoes, or playing in the snow with the kids instead of playing soccer in the grass.

Sometimes there’s a bit more creativity involved. Often this means finding ways to simplify activity or make it more accessible. For example, it may not be possible to get to the gym or even take a walk due to weather or any number of reasons. In those instances, other options include adding new types of movement — such as impromptu dance parties at home — or doing a few household chores (yes, it all counts as physical activity).

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I built a makeshift gym in my garage as an alternative to driving back and forth to the gym several miles from home. That has not only saved me time and money but also afforded me the opportunity to get 15 to 45 minutes of muscle-strengthening physical activity in at odd times of the day.

For more ideas on how to get active — on any day — or for help finding the motivation to get started, check out this Move Your Way® video .

The point to remember is that no matter the approach, the Physical Activity Guidelines recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (anything that gets your heart beating faster) each week and at least 2 days per week of muscle-strengthening activity (anything that makes your muscles work harder than usual). Youth need 60 minutes or more of physical activity each day. Preschool-aged children ages 3 to 5 years need to be active throughout the day — with adult caregivers encouraging active play — to enhance growth and development. Striving toward these goals and then continuing to get physical activity, in some shape or form, contributes to better health outcomes both immediately and over the long term.

For youth, sports offer additional avenues to more physical activity and improved mental health. Youth who participate in sports may enjoy psychosocial health benefits beyond the benefits they gain from other forms of leisure-time physical activity. Psychological health benefits include higher levels of perceived competence, confidence, and self-esteem — not to mention the benefits of team building, leadership, and resilience, which are important skills to apply on the field and throughout life. Research has also shown that youth sports participants have a reduced risk of suicide and suicidal thoughts and tendencies. Additionally, team sports participation during adolescence may lead to better mental health outcomes in adulthood (e.g., less anxiety and depression) for people exposed to adverse childhood experiences. In addition to the physical and mental health benefits, sports can be just plain fun.

Physical activity’s implications for significant positive effects on mental health and social well-being are enormous, impacting every facet of life. In fact, because of this national imperative, the presidential executive order that re-established the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition explicitly seeks to “expand national awareness of the importance of mental health as it pertains to physical fitness and nutrition.” While physical activity is not a substitute for mental health treatment when needed and it’s not the answer to certain mental health challenges, it does play a significant role in our emotional and cognitive well-being.

No matter how we choose to be active during the holiday season — or any season — every effort to move counts toward achieving recommended physical activity goals and will have positive impacts on both the mind and the body. Along with preventing diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and the additional risks associated with these comorbidities, physical activity’s positive effect on mental health is yet another important reason to be active and Move Your Way .

As for me… I think it’s time for a walk. Happy and healthy holidays, everyone!

Yours in health, Paul

Paul Reed, MD Rear Admiral, U.S. Public Health Service Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health Director, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

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Essay on Benefits of Physical Exercise: Enhancing Health and Well-being

Physical exercise is an essential aspect of a healthy lifestyle, offering a multitude of benefits for both the body and mind. Regular engagement in physical activities not only improves physical fitness but also promotes mental and emotional well-being. This essay explores the significant advantages of physical exercise, highlighting its impact on overall health, disease prevention, mental well being, and longevity.

I. Physical Health Benefits:

A. enhanced cardiovascular health:.

Regular exercise strengthens the heart muscles, improves blood circulation, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.

B. Weight Management and Metabolic Health:

Engaging in physical activities helps maintain a healthy weight by burning calories, boosting metabolism, and promoting the growth of lean muscle mass. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels and thus reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

C. Improved Bone Density and Joint Health:

Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking or weightlifting, promote the growth of strong bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Additionally, physical exercise strengthens the muscles surrounding the joints, reducing the risk of joint injuries and arthritis.

II. Mental and Emotional Well-being:

A. reduced stress and anxiety:.

Physical exercise stimulates the production of endorphins, known as “feel-good” hormones, which alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. It serves as a natural mood enhancer and promotes a sense of well-being.

B. Enhanced Cognitive Function:

Regular exercise improves cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain and promoting the growth of new brain cells. It enhances memory, concentration, and overall mental sharpness.

C. Improved Sleep Patterns:

Physical activity helps regulate sleep patterns, promoting deep and restorative sleep. It can alleviate insomnia and improve overall sleep quality, leading to better mental and physical rejuvenation.

III. Disease Prevention and Longevity:

A. reduced risk of chronic diseases:.

Regular exercise reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, and metabolic syndrome. It also helps manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

B. Enhanced Immune System:

Physical exercise boosts the immune system, making individuals less susceptible to common illnesses and infections. It improves the body’s defense mechanisms, reducing the severity and duration of illnesses.

C. Increased Longevity:

Engaging in regular physical activity has been associated with increased longevity. It helps maintain healthy body weight, prevents chronic diseases, and improves overall quality of life, contributing to a longer and healthier lifespan.

Conclusion:

The benefits of physical exercise are undeniable like yoga , encompassing improvements in physical health, mental well-being, disease prevention, and longevity. By incorporating regular exercise into our daily lives, we can enjoy enhanced cardiovascular health, better weight management, improved mental clarity, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Physical exercise is not only beneficial for our bodies but also contributes to a happier, more fulfilling life. Let us embrace the power of physical exercise and unlock its tremendous benefits for a healthier and more vibrant future.

Essay on Importance of Sports for Students and Children

500+ words essay on importance of sports.

First of all, Sport refers to an activity involving physical activity and skill . Here, two or more parties compete against each other. Sports are an integral part of human life and there is great importance of sports in all spheres of life. Furthermore, Sports help build the character and personality of a person. It certainly is an excellent tool to keep the body physically fit. Most noteworthy, the benefits of Sports are so many that books can be written. Sports have a massive positive effect on both the mind and body.

Physical Benefits of Sports

First of all, Sports strengthen the heart. Regular Sports certainly make the heart stronger. Hence, Sport is an excellent preventive measure against heart diseases . This certainly increases the life expectancy of individuals. Furthermore, a healthy heart means a healthy blood pressure.

Sports involve physical activity of the body. Due to this physical activity, blood vessels remain clean. Sports reduces the amount of cholesterol and fats in the body. This happens because of the increase of flexibility of the wall of the blood vessels. The flexibility increases due to physical exertion, which is the result of Sports.

Furthermore, the sugar level in blood also gets lower thanks to Sports. The sugar certainly does not accumulate in the blood due to physical activity.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

A person experiences a good quality of breathing because of Sports. Sports strengthen the lungs of the body. Sports certainly escalate the lung capacity and efficiency of the body. Hence, more oxygen enters the blood which is extremely beneficial. Furthermore, there are fewer chances of developing lung diseases due to Sports.

Appropriate body weight is easy to maintain because of sports. A Sports playing person probably does not suffer from obesity or underweight problems. Sports certainly help the body remain fit and slim.

Furthermore, Sports also improves the quality of bones. A person who plays sports will have strong bones even in old age. Several scientific research reports that Sports prevent many diseases. For example, many researchers conclude that Sports prevent the development of cancer.

Other Benefits of Sports

Sport is certainly an excellent tool to build self-confidence . Playing Sports increases confidence to talk properly. A sport certainly improves the skills of communicating with others. Furthermore, the person experiences confidence in sitting, standing, and walking properly. Hence, Sports enriches the social life of an individual.

Sports bring discipline in life. It certainly teaches the values of dedication and patience. Sports also teach people how to handle failure. Furthermore, the importance of following a time schedule is also present in Sports.

Above all, Sports improves the thinking ability of individuals. Sports certainly sharpen the mind. Children who play Sports probably perform better at exams than those who don’t.

Finally, Sports reduces the stress of mind . A Sports playing person would certainly experience less depression. Sports ensure the peace of mind of those playing it. Most noteworthy, Sports brings happiness and joy in the life of individuals.

A sport is an aspect of human life that is of paramount importance. It certainly increases the quality of human life. Sports must be made mandatory in schools. This is because it is as important as education. Everyone must perform at least one Sport activity on a regular basis.

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Home / Essay Samples / Health / Physical Exercise / Benefits of Physical Exercise for Health and Wellness

Benefits of Physical Exercise for Health and Wellness

Category: Life , Health
Topic: Fitness , Healthy Lifestyle , Physical Exercise

Pages: 2 (752 words)

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Physical fitness

Cardiovascular system.

Improvement of hip cracks coming about because of bone degeneration;
Squash cracks along the spine;
Joint inflammation; and
Diminished adaptability, flexibility.

Immune system

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