Everyone knows that exercising regularly is one of the best things you can do for your body. And while we’ve touched on the mental health benefits that regular exercise offers, we haven’t talked about the physical health benefits. And we’re not just talking about losing weight or building muscle. Believe it or not, there are many other, lesser-known benefits you’ll experience from getting a good workout in. Those benefits can even reduce your risk of needing physical therapy services in the first place. Here’s what you need to know.

Exercise Improves Your Flexibility

When it comes to flexibility, it’s really a use-it-or-lose-it scenario. When you stop moving around and being active, your muscles start to lose their ability to move fully. This often results in feelings of tension or tightness in your limbs, neck, and back. By exercising regularly, you’ll get those muscles moving, increasing the blood flow to those areas to further relieve stiffness. Over time, you’ll see an improvement in your flexibility and range of motion. That flexibility can keep you from hurting yourself or experiencing troubling muscle strain as often.

It May Even Reduce Your Risk of Certain Diseases

Scientists and doctors alike agree that regular exercise can dramatically reduce your risk of certain diseases. These include conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and even some cancers. That means you’ll stay healthier in the long run and be able to live life more fully. That said, you’ll still want to eat right and stay on top of routine health screenings with your doctor to get the most benefit.

It Makes Kicking Bad Habits Easier

Everyone has one or two bad habits. You know—the ones you know you shouldn’t indulge in but do anyway? Kicking those habits to the curb is a wonderful way to improve your health and exercising can help make the process easier. You’ll be replacing the feel-good feelings you get from those bad habits with endorphins from exercising. 

Regular Exercise Gives You More Energy

When you think about exercising on a regular basis, you probably picture yourself feeling exhausted after each workout. While this can happen occasionally, those workouts are far more likely to leave you feeling invigorated both immediately after the workout and hours afterward. When you make it a habit, you’ll start to notice increased energy levels each day. Even better, those same workouts that give you a much-needed energy boost can make it easier to fall asleep each night. The more rested you are, the more energy you’ll have!

Start Exercising the Right Way

Getting regular exercise is a great way to improve your mental and physical health each day. You just need to make sure you do it in such a way that you avoid injuring yourself. If you’re not sure where to start or are worried about making a transition from your physical therapy routine to a workout routine, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll help you figure out the best way to get in shape without reinjuring yourself.