What is your favourite form of exercise?

I have thought about this a lot and I don’t have a definite answer.

There was a time when I loved running.

There was a time when I practiced yoga every single day.

Then there was a time when I went for everyday walks.

Later on, I started dancing every single day.

Lately, I’ve been lifting weights and boxing a little.

So you see, it all depends on the current mindset and time bandwidth.

No matter what form of physical exercise you love, it is important that you pick one and do it on regular basis.

The importance of physical exercise

Engaging in physical exercise is crucial for a variety of reasons, and its importance is well-established in promoting overall health and well-being. Here are some key reasons why physical exercise is important:

1. Physical Health: Exercise helps maintain and improve physical health. It strengthens muscles, bones, and the cardiovascular system. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. It can also improve your immune system, making you more resilient to illnesses.
2. Weight Management: Exercise can help with weight management by burning calories. Combining regular physical activity with a balanced diet can assist in weight loss or maintenance.
3. Mental Health: Physical exercise has a positive impact on mental health. It can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood, and increase self-esteem. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.
4. Stress Reduction: Exercise is an excellent stress reliever. It helps to reduce stress hormones and triggers the release of chemicals that make you feel more relaxed and happier.
5. Improved Sleep: Regular physical activity can lead to better sleep patterns. It helps you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper, more restful sleep.
6. Enhanced Cognitive Function: Exercise has been linked to improved cognitive function, including better memory, focus, and creativity. It can also reduce the risk of cognitive decline as we age.
7. Increased Energy: Engaging in physical activity increases your overall energy levels and endurance, making daily tasks and activities easier to perform.
8. Social Interaction: Many forms of exercise can be social activities, allowing you to connect with others. Social interactions can have positive effects on mental and emotional well-being.
9. Improved Longevity: Regular exercise is associated with a longer lifespan and a higher quality of life in one’s later years.
10. Bone Health: Weight-bearing exercises, like walking or weightlifting, can strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
11. Cardiovascular Health: Exercise can improve cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of high blood pressure, improving cholesterol profiles, and enhancing overall heart function.
12. Immune System Boost: Regular, moderate exercise can enhance the immune system’s ability to combat infections and diseases.
13. Enhanced Flexibility and Balance: Certain types of exercise, like yoga and tai chi, can improve flexibility and balance, reducing the risk of falls and injuries, particularly in older adults.

It’s important to note that the type, intensity, and duration of exercise can vary depending on individual fitness levels, goals, and health conditions. Before starting a new exercise program, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a fitness expert to ensure that your chosen activities are safe and appropriate for your specific needs and goals.

A list of easy physical exercises you can do at home

There are plenty of simple and effective physical exercises you can do at home without the need for special equipment. These exercises can help you stay active, improve your fitness, and even build strength. Here are some easy exercises to get you started:

1. Bodyweight Squats:
   • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
   • Lower your body by bending your knees and pushing your hips back as if you’re sitting in a chair.
   • Keep your chest up and your back straight.
   • Lower yourself as far as you can comfortably, ideally until your thighs are parallel to the ground.
   • Push through your heels to return to the starting position.
   • Do 2-3 sets of 10-15 reps.
2. Push-Ups:
   • Get into a plank position with your hands placed slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
   • Lower your body by bending your elbows, keeping your body in a straight line.
   • Push back up to the starting position.
   • You can modify by doing knee push-ups or incline push-ups against a wall or elevated surface.
   • Do 2-3 sets of 8-12 reps.
3. Lunges:
   • Stand with your feet together.
   • Step forward with one leg and lower your body until both knees are bent at a 90-degree angle.
   • Make sure your front knee is directly above your ankle.
   • Push through your front heel to return to the starting position.
   • Repeat with the other leg.
   • Do 2-3 sets of 10-12 reps for each leg.
4. Plank:
   • Get into a push-up position with your arms straight, or you can use your forearms for support.
   • Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels, engaging your core.
   • Hold the position for as long as you can, aiming to increase your time with each session.
   • Try to hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute, and do 2-3 sets.
5. Glute Bridges:
   • Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart.
   • Lift your hips off the ground, squeezing your glutes at the top.
   • Lower your hips back down without letting them touch the floor.
   • Do 2-3 sets of 12-15 reps.
6. Superman (Back Extension):
   • Lie face down with your arms extended in front of you.
   • Lift your chest, arms, and legs off the ground as high as you can.
   • Hold for a few seconds, then lower back down.
   • Do 2-3 sets of 10-12 reps.
7. Jumping Jacks:
   • Start with your feet together and arms at your sides.
   • Jump while spreading your legs and raising your arms overhead.
   • Jump back to the starting position.
   • Do this in a rhythmic fashion for a cardio workout.
   • Do 2-3 sets of 30-60 seconds.

Remember to warm up before you start, and cool down after your workout. Adjust the number of repetitions and sets based on your fitness level and gradually increase the intensity as you get stronger and more comfortable with these exercises. It’s essential to maintain proper form to avoid injury.

So, how are you moving your body these days?