Michael Canzian

Michael Canzian recognizes the importance of maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle regardless of a hectic schedule. He enjoys a number of sports such as skiing, cycling, running, and weight lifting given that this helps him stay in shape. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2021) asserted that “Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health” (para. 1). Working out should be perceived as a health investment that will demonstrate its effects in the long run given that it provides various benefits that is not only limited to physical development but also mental strength.

First, staying physically fit will assist the body to improve overall quality of life. The American Heart Association (2017) advised that being more active can lower blood pressure, boost levels of good cholesterol, improve blood flow circulation, keep weight under control, and prevent bone loss. This indicates that in order to prevent health complications, the significance of including  exercise as part of one’s daily routine. Even small activities such as doing house chores, walking around the neighborhood, or doing outdoor activities with family members can be beneficial to  increasing one’s physical health. Disregarding the importance of regular exercise will only lead to long-term health problems that could have been prevented earlier on. 

Second, exercising regularly vitalizes both mind and body. Staying active will improve overall strength, stamina, and ability to function. Exercising naturally trains the body to function more effectively and carry out day-to-day activities easily. In order to sustain this, it is crucial to have an awareness of the body’s ability to adjust according to a person’s lifestyle. Keeping this in mind may increase one’s motivation to increase their daily physical activity. 

Third, being physically active means naturally improving one’s mood. According to the American Heart Association (2017), stress, anxiety, depression, and anger can be relieved through regular physical activity. During exercise, the body releases chemicals called endorphins, which are responsible for interacting with brain receptors to generate feelings of positivity and reduce perceptions of pain (Bhandari, 2020). These chemicals continue to be released after exercise, elevating one’s mood throughout the day.

Having a busy schedule should not be used as an excuse for ignoring the need to have regular exercise. For adults, Laskowski (2019) recommended at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity in a week. It may also be a combination of the two. He also added that 30 minutes of physical activity should be a general goal per day. There are numerous of ways to stay physically active starting with daily steps, which can increase the likelihood of maintaining an active lifestyle. It is also important to take note that while motivation can help at the beginning of any exercise regimen, discipline will always play a major factor in continuing good exercise habits.