Palm Beach Post Special Section
As a Physician in Florida since 1990, I have witnessed the benefits of exercise in my mostly senior population of patients. Many of my patients have either stopped or decreased both anti-hypertensive and diabetic medications. They have improved their circulatory and cardiovascular system, which has the added benefit of improving endurance. Not only does regular exercise improve bone density and muscular strength but also improves joint flexibility and weight loss. Seniors who exercise regularly have reduced stress and depression and have increased self-esteem. Remember a sedentary lifestyle is one of the top risk factors of heart disease. Fortunately, it is a risk factor that can be changed with a well-balanced exercise program. Remember not only is increasing muscular strength possible it is imperative to your health.
I would like to leave you with a list of exercise side effects.
- Strengthen your heart and cardiovascular system
- Improve your circulation and help your body use oxygen better
- Improve your heart failure symptoms
- Increase energy levels so you can do more activities without becoming tired or short breath
- Increase endurance
- Lower blood pressure
- Improve muscle tone and strength
- Improve balance and joint flexibility
- Strengthen bones
- Help reduce body fat and help you reach a healthy weight
- Help reduce stress, tension, anxiety, and depression
- Boosts self-image and self-esteem
- Improves sleep
- Make you feel more relaxed and rested
- Make you look fit and healthy
