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If the main benefits of exercise; fat loss, energy boosts, lowering blood pressure and gains in confidence and strength are not the reasons that motivate you to start exercising or entice you to make it a routine of fitness in your lifestyle,  maybe learning more about the benefits to your mental health will get your interests peaking!

The many benefits of mental health from a regular exercise regimen have been recognized to do everything from treating depression, improving memory and even helping to prevent against dementia in the older years of your life! These benefits are beneficial for any age from children to seniors. Everyone in your family can reap the mental health rewards of exercise!

Here is how!

• Exercise has also been found to increase levels of "brain-derived neurotrophic factor" (BDNF). This substance is thought to improve mood, and it may play a role in the beneficial effects of exercise. BDNF's primary role seems to be to help brain cells survive longer, so this may also explain some of the beneficial effects of exercise on dementia.
• Some studies have found that exercise boosts activity in the brain's frontal lobes and the hippocampus. It has been found that exercise increases levels of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters have been associated with elevated moods.
• Exercise triggers the production of endorphins, these natural opiates are chemically similar to morphine. They may be produced as natural pain relievers in response to the shock that the body receives during exercise.
• Exercise stimulates brain growth and boosts cognitive performance. Preventing brain tissue loss in older adults.
• Exercise leads to the release of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that alleviate pain, both physical and mental.

The bottom line is that most of us feel good after exercise. Physical exercise is good for our physical and mental health, confidence, well-being and for our brains. Set your kids up with the gift of an active lifestyle allowing them to benefit mentally and physically.  The best way to do this is to lead by example!

If you have any questions, comments or topics that you would like to learn more about, contact Kasie at kasie@profilefitnesstraining.com