10 Reasons to Exercise That Have Nothing to Do With How You Look

on June 22, 2015

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Dig Deep

Getting on that exercise grind can be difficult. We know. But it isn't all about just looking fit. Working out everyday can foster multiple lifelong benefits that will reward you with a happier, healthier, less-stressed lifestyle. From better heart health to better sex to improved mental health, here are 10 compelling reasons to start (or keep) exercising.

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Boost Your Mood

In the words of Elle Woods, "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don't shoot their husbands. They just don't."

This may be a bit extreme, but if you condition your brain to expect a daily (or at least every other day) release of endorphins, you will max out on good vibes. If you have a positive disposition while hitting the gym, you will reap the most benefits. Do what suits you, and be happy that you're trying. For more info on how workouts affect the brain, look here.

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Increased Self Esteem

Forget being skinny, fit, trim (although those are all great benefits of working out)-feeling good in your own skin is the most important. Exercising every day will give you a sense of achievement and success that will totally boost your ego. Work out, come back, look at yourself in the mirror, and tell yourself that you were a boss out there. So maybe you're sweaty and hot. Sweat is just the body wringing out toxins, negativity and bad energy. Click to learn more about feelin' good after your workouts.

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Higher Energy Levels

Coffee not giving you the boost you need in the morning? Start your day with a fun workout regime-with the help of an irresistible dance playlist-that will get your blood pumping AND enhance your energy levels for the rest of the day! You'll be able to skip that afternoon nap and push through till nightfall. Even just stretching for 15 to 20 minutes can help keep you on top of your game all day long. Need proof? Find more info here.

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Be Better in Bed

Woah, baby! Who knew that you could amp up your sex drive by working out? Aerobic workouts increase blood flow to the sex organs and aid in respiration, which can help prevent you from tiring out too soon, and stronger muscles can allow for more creative and longer-lasting, ahem, activity. Endorphins (not to mention an improved physique) also have a hand in making you feel sexier and more confident. This is one way that gym membership will really pay off! Here is all the proof you need.

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Beautiful Skin

While this sort-of has to do with how you look, just think of it as a prevention for having to buy acne and wrinkle creams. As exercise boosts circulation, your skin will be nourished by the increase in oxygen that blood brings to your skin. Faster blood flow means more toxins will be drawn out of your skin, and an increase in sweat production will flush out your pores, leaving you glowing. Exercise will maximize collagen production, which will improve the skin's overall elasticity. Bye bye, acne and wrinkles! See how it works here.

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Better Sleep

If you keep active during the day, you will definitely start to sleep better at night. According to this report, you will sleep longer and have a better night's rest, depending on when, how long, and how you work out. The brain and body must fatigue for you to be tired enough to fall asleep, so a long day at work and a hearty workout should do the trick!

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Improved Balance and Posture

Regularly working out can actually improve your balance by strenthening your muscles and elongating the spine into a more upright posture. Working on core strenth will keep your back erect, instead of slouchy and hunched. This can have an effect on how you carry fat, as well, making that pesky stomach "pooch" a little slimmer. As you get older, you'll be thankful that your have a sturdy skeleton holding you up. See more information here.

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Combat Depression

Fully sustained, routine exercise can act as a natural antidepressent, as you start to sweat out negativity, increase your energy, and stay active, which is usually the opposite of how depression can physically affect an individual. Try aerobics or some form of cardio to get your blood pumping, or yoga to improve your mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. Find out how it works here.

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Decreased Stress Levels

Exercise is the perfect outlet after a stressful day. Put on some loud music and jam out for a while to keep your mind off anything that could lead you to stress out. You can physically work through your stress with a strenuous workout or find your zen by breathing out your stress. Before you know it, you'll start to be more optimistic and have a better outlook on life. See how, here.

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A Longer, Happier Life

Because exercise reduces your risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and even some types of cancer, healthy exercise habits can extend your lifespan by years! You'll also have stronger bones and muscles, which can decrease your chances of falling or getting severely injured at an older age. Just get out there! Who wouldn't want more birthdays? More here.