What are the benefits of exercise?

Exercise improves the body in many ways.

• The lungs take in more air, giving us more oxygen.

• The heart works harder to get more blood and oxygen to the parts of the body that are working.

• The heart and muscles become larger, stronger and fitter.

• Weight-bearing exercises like running, skipping and hopping help to develop strong bones.

• Food is processed more efficiently and waste products are more quickly removed, leaving the body feeling more comfortable.

• The skin, hair and eyes look better because the “inside” is healthy.

• Improved muscle tone gives the body a better shape and posture.

• Chemicals are released into the brain which make us feel happy. These are called endorphins. They make us feel more confident and improve our self-esteem.

• We sleep better.

• Strength, stamina and suppleness are improved.