Being physically active can help individuals:
- Lose and control weight
- Sleep better
- Reduce risk of chronic diseases like: cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes
- Reduces risk of high blood pressure and stroke
- Improve mental health
- Increase chances of living longer
- Reduce risk of certain cancers, including colon and breast
- Strengthen bones and muscles
- Improve balance and prevent falls
- Feel and look better
Even moderate amounts of physical activity provide health benefits.
- Modest weight loss is associated with improvements in lipid profiles, metabolic syndrome, hypertension and a primary prevention of diabetes.
- Physically active adults have lower risk of depression and cognitive decline (declines with aging in thinking, learning, and judgment skills).
- Physical activity also may improve the quality of sleep.