The Importance of Exercise

By: Selena Straughan '32

Is There More to Exercise Than We Think? 

You probably have heard many people say that exercise is important. Maybe your parents, teachers, or doctor have said so. And it is. Exercise is very important, but not only for physical health. 

LMMS gym teacher Mr. Romano said, “There are three sides to exercise, physical health, social health and mental health. It is called the health triangle. Social and mental health are just as important as physical health. ” 

Mr. Romano also stated, "Physical activity helps relieve stress. When you are stressed, your body releases adrenaline. Adrenaline isn’t bad, but too much of it makes you more likely to have a heart attack. The saying, ‘You're going to give me a heart attack’, really is true. It is possible to be so stressed that you have a heart attack.” 

An article posted by the National Library of Medicine stated, “In addition to physical health benefits, physical activity also affects mental health positively. Physically inactive individuals have been reported to have higher rates of morbidity and healthcare expenditures. Commonly, exercise therapy is recommended to combat these challenges and preserve mental wellness.”   

But that's just mental health. Exercise also helps you socialize. 

An article by Harvard Medical School said, “Going for a brisk walk with one or more friends is a form of socializing, which is essential for good health. Socializing helps stave off isolation and loneliness, which are associated with heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, depression, chronic stress, and premature death.”  

One site, Nivati, also wrote, “Exercise releases endorphins, which are hormones that make us feel good. This post-workout high can improve our mood, making us more likely to engage positively with others.” 

All in all, not only does exercise help our body stay fit, but it keeps our brain and wellbeing fit too. 

Resources: 

Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/better-together-the-many-benefits-of-walking-with-friends

Nivati.com: https://www.nivati.com/blog/the-top-10-social-benefits-of-exercise

National Library of Medicine: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9902068/