But that’s far from all the benefits we can get from physical activity.
Science shows that by exercising regularly, we can turn back the clock and slow down the aging process.
Let’s look at 5 ways how good old workouts can make you look and feel younger at any age.
1. Regular exercise increases longevity
Our chromosomes have special protective areas called telomeres that determine the lifetime of our cells. As we age, telomeres become shorter, our cells age and die faster, and the risk for various chronic illnesses increases.
A UCSF research found that regular physical activity in combination with a healthy diet and proper stress management can lengthen our telomeres.
This could potentially prevent chronic diseases, and even extend our lifespan.
2. Regular exercise brings youth back to your skin
Turns out, a secret to having supple and younger-looking skin does not lie in anti-aging cream jars or serum bottles. At least, not entirely.
Nothing brings a youthful glow to the skin like good exercise. The reason is that intensive physical activity increases blood flow that delivers vital nutrients and oxygen to the skin cells, keeping them healthy and nourished.
Workouts also cause sweating that helps the skin get rid of toxins and impurities. As a result, you get glowing skin with an even tone and fewer wrinkles.
And the skin not only looks younger, it actually is younger – researchers from McMaster University found that people over 40 years old who exercise regularly have skin composition closer to that of 20- and 30-year-olds!
3. Regular exercise improves posture
As years pass by, we start to experience bone and muscle loss which makes it more difficult for us to maintain a straight posture. Not only does it bring various health problems such as back pain, but also adds years to our appearance.
Regular strength training helps increase muscle mass, strengthen your core, and provide your spine with needed support. As your posture improves, you stand straight, move freely, and look younger and more attractive.
But most importantly, you also get rid of the pain associated with a bad posture that can become an annoying obstacle in everyday life.
That’s backed by science too – a study conducted by the Society of Physical Therapy Science found that posture correction exercise effectively relieves shoulder and back pain.
4. Regular exercise boosts your energy level
Various studies show that regular exercise reduces fatigue, increases energy level, and improves mood.
This is especially important for those of us who constantly feel tired or sleepy and don’t know where to find energy for important life activities.
Workouts give us those youthful energy boosts which help us feel fresh and more active without drinking gallons of coffee or energy drinks.
For example, research conducted by S. Karger AG, Basel found that just 6 weeks of regular low and moderate exercise training improved the feeling of energy in sedentary adults who suffered from a persistent feeling of fatigue.
5. Regular exercise improves cognitive function
Our brain changes throughout our lifetime, and our cognitive function can deteriorate as we’re getting older.
Regular physical activity boosts our brainpower and helps us fight that decline in cognitive performance. That happens because exercise increases blood flow to the brain, helping it develop and grow new neuronal connections.
Different types of workouts can improve various cognitive functions, such as memory and concentration, and even decrease the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
For example, a study conducted by the researchers from the University of California found that participants over the age of 65 who had higher levels of physical activity were less likely to develop cognitive decline.
10-40 min workout
We prepared a simple workout that will help you keep your body toned & youthful. You can train from home or in the gym – choose whatever works best for you, just keep it regular - 2-3 times per week.
Remember to combine physical exercise with healthy nutrition, meditation, and good sleep, and you’ll achieve amazing results both for your body and mind.
