Continued from How Important Is Exercise?

Is diet more important than exercise? Is diet more important than exercise even if you need to lose weight? Assuming diet is more important than exercise, does it mean that exercise is not important at all? No, of course not. While it is true that for the purpose of weight loss, diet is probably more important than exercise, regular exercise is still very important, and here is why.

Lungs, heart, blood vessels – increased fitness and stamina Exercise causes positive physiological changes. The lungs will process more oxygen with each breath. A fit heart works more efficiently with fewer beats per minute while at rest than an unfit heart. Blood circulation throughout the body is improved as the blood flows through the vessels more easily.

Reduced blood pressure Regular exercise lowers the heart rate and reduces blood pressure. A lower blood pressure, combined with the increased release of endorphins, reduces tension and relieves anxiety.

Bones and joints Bones become stronger, especially with weight bearing activity such as resistance exercise, an important consideration for preventing osteoporosis, the “bone thinning disease.” Joints can be more flexible which allows for greater range of motion, making them less prone to injury.

Reduced appetite Exercise will help control one’s appetite. An active person is less likely to overeat or eat out of boredom. Occasionally exercisers will be more hungry, but the added calorie expenditure more than makes up for this.

Confidence A sense of accomplishment with physical activity is typically carried over into other areas of your life. Increased confidence is a terrific bonus!

So, as you can see, even if diet is more important than exercise, do not be too quick to dismiss exercise as a waste of your time. It can help you stay in shape or get in shape, just make sure that you also pay a very close attention to your diet.