Is Exercise the Key to Longevity?

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What if you found a fountain of youth pouring forth all the magic water needed to keep you looking and feeling young and healthy? You would probably try to get as much of it as possible, and no one would blame you. Of course, this scenario is unlikely, but there is a close second: exercise. As we age, our bodies naturally slow down. The heart slows, blood thickens, muscle mass declines, reflexes dull, and joints stiffen even in the healthiest of folks. Regular exercise cannot stop these, or guarantee that they wont cause problems. It can, however, put the odds in your favor. A healthy, albeit aging, body will have a better chance of staving off complications that speed the aging process. So, why arent more people trying to exercise as much as they can? Does exercising really lead to increased longevity? A simple answer would be yes, but the fascinating part is the explanation of how exercising is the magic water without the fountain.

Appearance

As we age, our reflection in the mirror becomes an indicator of time. Unless you continue to challenge your body, it has no reason to slow the aging process down. However, when you do present your muscles with resistance, an interesting thing happens: they adapt. The human body is designed to constantly change in order to meet the circumstances that it faces. It can only do that when it is used on a regular basis. Ambivalence is the number one ally that aging and atrophy have. In fact, extra wrinkles and pounds rely on you accepting them. Instead, turn the tables and stay active. Keep your body engaged in physical activity and make sure that it never slows down enough to invite atrophy. With an appearance that makes you proud, those wrinkles will not matter, and that is the key to staying truly young.

Energy

Toned muscles are only one part of winning the battle against aging. Exercise will give you more energy throughout each day, which means that youll be more productive and enjoy all of the things you do. According to Harvard Medical School, exercise protects and speeds metabolism, boosts your mood, and improves sleep, all things that contribute to increased energy levels. Imagine having the capacity to keep up with your busy schedule and commitments, and still have energy left over for your favorite activities. That is what exercise offers, and there are a variety of fun ways you can participate in it. From walking to dancing, or weights to aerobics, anyone can easily find their own form of exercise that fits their personality.

Health and Longevity

It should be no surprise that the lower the number of health-related problems you have, the longer you will live. Many of these problems are a direct result of the bodys inability to prevent illnesses as effectively as it once did. Specifically, bones become more fragile and functions operate at less than optimal levels. The secret to reversing the aging process is to make sure that your body has the advantage of being in the best shape possible. More than a youthful appearance, exercising can keep your heart strong and your blood flowing, preventing numerous conditions that are associated with age. Your bones will be strong and flexible, allowing you to be mobile and independent. If an illness does arise, your body will be better equipped to handle it, and you will have an extended list of options available to you. By choosing to be active today, you are not only increasing the number of years you might live, but also the quality of them. In addition, exercise improves breathing, which is the very essence of life. There might not be a mythical fountain of youth at your disposal, but fitness requires no magic or luck, only the desire to live the longest and healthiest life of your dreams. Sources: http://www.news-medical.net/news/20100127/Regular-exercise-associated-with-greater-longevity-and-reduced-risk-of-age-related-conditions.aspx http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsweek/Exercise_and_aging_Can_you_walk_away_from_Father_Time.htm