Exercise is a "superstar" when it comes to health benefits. If we could bottle exercise it would be more powerful than most treatments we have to date. Exercise can reduce all-cause mortality (death rates) and reduce most chronic illnesses.
Even after receiving chemotherapy, exercise done right is being studied and shows promise with better patient outcomes, and better quality of life.
Reduction of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, #diabetes, #obesity, osteoporosis, and depression are just a few of the benefits of regular exercise. However, if you have limitations or symptoms it's best to check with your health care provider before you start.
It is also very important not to overdo it (think weekend warrior), if you have health problems or take medications, without getting checked first. If you are in hot, humid conditions or extreme cold it can put significant stress on your heart.
It is important to stay hydrated and have periods of rest, especially when starting a new exercise regimen.
If you have symptoms or risk factors for heart disease, your doctor may recommend some testing before you embark on an exercise program. An EKG can be helpful, but a stress test may be needed to evaluate what happens during exercise.
If you have a family history of heart or blood vessel disease it is very important to be checked for high blood pressure and other risk factors that can lead to blood vessel problems, especially diabetes, high cholesterol, tobacco use, and obesity.