Workout
There's no way around it. A great diet without exercise is like the difference between gold plating and solid gold. Try the two together and you'll be amazed how much more you'll improve your health. Here we give you some fascinating and motivational insights into the benefits of exercise, training tips and some exercises to target and tone specific parts of the body.
10 better reasons to work-out than looking hot
1. Testosterone
A big incentive for men who are, after all, the essence of testosterone. As you gradually increase the level of resistance in your weight training, your muscles produce testosterone. This gives you the energy, stamina and aggression (channelled positively, of course) to get the most out of life.
2. Active body. Active mind
It's probably all that oxygen flowing to the brain, but after a workout you feel clear-headed. You'll find you're able to concentrate better throughout the day and ideas will pop.
3. Downtime for the brain
Many people comment on how they find exercising takes their mind of things. That's because your body is focusing on the work, giving your brain some well-earned downtime. If you've been trying to solve a problem all day, don't be surprised if it suddenly pops into your head while you're exercising - or in the shower afterwards. While your brain has been resting, your subconscious has been sorting things out.
4. Enjoyment
Come on. There must be something you like to do. Dance? There are so many great dance classes out there for beginners and enthusiasts, from hip-hop to ballroom. And that's just one form of exercise. Swimming, weight training, pilates, yoga, boxing, tennis, squash, skipping - you name it. There are plenty of ways to do it. Alone, or with friends and family.
5. A good sweat clears the decks
Sweating regularly helps your body to remove toxins that can build up if you live a sedentary lifestyle.
6. Sleep like a baby
Studies have proven the point. Regular exercise leads to better sleep. This is particularly important as we get older and our sleep habits change.
7. Longer life
If you want a longer, active life, you need to keep moving. Regular exercise helps you to live longer and stay healthier into old age.
8. De-stress
People who exercise tend to be less stressed and handle stress better. Why? They sleep better, giving their brain downtime, and sweat out toxins.
9. Better strength and endurance
When you don't exercise you impair your body's speed, balance, strength and endurance. This can make everyday tasks just that little bit more difficult and potentially dangerous - like balancing on a step-ladder to change a light globe.
10. Self confidence
It all adds up to better self confidence. You feel fitter and feel-good endorphins and oxygenated blood are flowing through your body, giving you a great sense of wellbeing. And that's the key to achieving many of life's successes.
