Exercise is any physical activity that enhances physical fitness, strengthening muscles and various body systems. It can also be done for fun, weight loss, or stress reduction.
Exercise is divided into three main types:
- Aerobic Exercise (Cardio): These exercises utilize large muscle groups and increase oxygen consumption over resting levels. Activities like running, brisk walking, jumping rope, swimming, and cycling enhance cardiovascular endurance and resistance.
- Anaerobic Exercise: Suitable for those who enjoy strength training, this type of exercise helps increase muscle strength and bone density. It involves:
- Bodyweight resistance exercises such as push-ups and pull-ups.
- Resistance training using equipment like dumbbells and barbells.
- Flexibility Exercises: Ideal for those who prefer low-impact, gradual muscle stretching. These exercises enhance joint and muscle flexibility, as seen in yoga and Pilates.
Benefits of Exercising:
- Strengthens physical health.
- Develops the cardiovascular system.
- Boosts the immune system.
- Clears the mind, enhancing freshness and alertness.
- Reduces stress.
- Improves sleep quality.
- Aids in weight and excess fat reduction.
Exercise offers a variety of activities that cater to personal interests. Recognizing its multiple benefits, it’s advisable to incorporate simple exercises into our daily routine, possibly shifting habits from snacking to engaging in physical activity. This advice comes with care from Piyavate Hospital.
Source: Faculty of Sports Science, Mahidol University
