At this time of year, it can be tough to motivate yourself to get to the gym every day, attend your weekly fitness class or jump in the pool for a swim. Exercising regularly has so many benefits for our mind and body, it can lift your mood and give you that boost you need at the start of the day.

Our Fitness Manager at Herb House Justin Pimm gives us the top 5 benefits of exercising regularly.

1. It can make you feel happier!

Exercise has been shown to improve your mood and decrease feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress. Exercising produces chemical changes in the part of the brain that regulate stress and anxiety and exercising can increase the production of endorphins which are known to help increase positive feelings. So, whether you are training hard at the gym or going for a stroll, no matter the intensity of the exercise – it should boost your mood leaving you feeling better.

2. It’s the way to a healthier life

Regular exercise really does have a major impact on our long-term health and wellbeing. Exercising regularly also keeps your heart healthy and lowers the risk of disease.

3. Promotes better sleep

Regular exercise can help you to feel more relaxed and improve your sleep – bonus! Exercising regularly can help you too fall asleep faster, get better quality sleep, and deepen your sleep. Exercise relaxes the mind and regulates melatonin levels which help transition the body into a better sleep mode.

4. Exercise can be fun and social

Physical activity can be enjoyable! It gives you the chance to unwind, enjoy the outdoors or simply take part in an activity that makes you happy. Exercise doesn’t always have to be working out in the gym, you can go for a stroll or bike ride around the beautiful forest, take a dip in the lap pool at Herb House or try one of our many fun classes. There is so much choice – perhaps trying a new class will result in you finding your new favourite activity!

5. It’s good for muscles and bones

Physical activity helps to stimulate muscle and bone growth which can be incredibly beneficial in reducing muscle loss and maintaining strength into old age, as muscle mass tends to decrease the older we get. Strength training and weight-lifting exercises are also listed amongst the many natural ways to build and maintain healthy bones.

If you fancy taking part in a class, click here to see our timetables or if you’d like to try a session with one of our PT’s to get you motivated please email reservations@herbhouse.co.uk or call 023 8028 6998.