Four (or Five!) Reasons Why

…It’s Time To Start An Exercise Regimen

1. While weight gain over the holidays is lower than originally expected, a study in 2000 showed that participants gained an average of approximately one pound. This may not seem to be of any consequence, however the study found that most of the yearly gain was added during the Christmas period. More concerning is the fact that few people lose those extra holiday pounds, which significantly contributes to weight gain seen as people age.

2. A survey conducted in 2005 found holiday shopping caused headaches in nearly 25% of people, while 11% suffered from sleeplessness. Regular exercise is well known as an aid in alleviating stress, improving sleep and providing a general sense of well-being.

3. A study published in 2004 found that the winter holiday season is “a risk factor for cardiac and noncardiac mortality.” Furthermore, the authors note that there are “multiple explanations for this association, including the possibility that holiday-induced delays in seeking treatment play a role in producing the twin holiday spikes”. The lesson here - start preparing for next year so you don’t become another statistic. Exercise your heart!

4. Once the turkey is done, the wrapping paper thrown in the recycling bin and the in-laws have gone home, many people suffer from the post-holiday blues. Depression is often at its highest during January as merry-makers look at a skinny wallet and expanded waistline. Exercise is known to improve one’s mood and the rush of endorphins after a work-out can produce a state of euphoria.

5. Exercise improves your sex life. Sex improves your mental and physical well-being. Improved well-being will make January and February go by faster than you can imagine. Seems like a pretty simple equation to me!