There are different types of exercise.  The types of exercises are categorized into three distinct groups:  flexibility, aerobic, and anaerobic exercises.  

Flexibility exercises help to improve the range of motion of the joints and the muscles.

Aerobic exercises requires oxygen and improves the body’s overall utilization of oxygen.  This refers to the body’s use of oxygen in it process of  respiration or the process by which glucose is metabolized and converted (broken down) into useable energy.  Participating in aerobic exercises is the most effective and efficient way to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight.  Aerobic exercises benefit the body by:

*strengthening and conditioning the heart muscle pumping blood more efficiently, improving the circulation within the body.  It also lowers the pulse rate of individuals at rest.  

*strengthens the muscles within the body involved in respiration. 

*Tones muscles within the body.

*Raises the amount of the red blood cells produced by the body.  This helps  

  transport more oxygen to cells through the bloodstream. 

*Lowers blood pressure by improving blood flow within the arteries and veins.  This helps reduce the risk of stroke.

*reduces cardiovascular issues and lowers the risk of heart disease.

*reduces headaches and migraines.

*Improves overall mental well-being.

*Improves sleep patterns and sleep quality such as reducing the incidence 

 of insomnia.  

*improves the body in breaking down carbohydrates into glucose more efficiently and also improves the efficiency of these cells to remove glucose from the blood by converting it energy more rapidly.

*Increases the lifespan.  People who engage in regular, moderate exercise live longer on average than people who do not.  

Anaerobic exercises do not require oxygen.  They use a different metabolic pathway to convert glucose to energy.  These short and intense exercises build strength and power within the muscles by increasing the muscle mass.  As the body builds more muscle, fat is broken down and converted to energy through the process of glycolysis.  Lactic Acid is created as a byproduct of this process. Muscle burns the most calories when compared to other tissues within the body.  Anaerobic exercise benefits the body by:

*growth in muscle mass by increasing the production of cells within the muscle tissue and also increase the strength of the muscle.  

*Helps to control weight.

*Aides the body in burning fat and converting this fat into energy

*Strengthens the bones and the joints.

*more lactic acid is eliminated by the body.

*strengthens the joints and the bones

Exercise is not only good for your body, but it also enables you to live a long, healthy life.  Moderate exercise for 30 to 45 minutes is all that is needed. This can easily be done by walking or having fun and doing something you enjoy such as biking or swimming.  The benefits of exercise far outweigh the consequences of not keeping fit.  You will be happier, healthier, and able to enjoy life more!