10 Unhealthy Habits You Need to Break Now (Page 4)

3. Not Getting Enough Exercise

If in a previous phase of your life you were an exerciser, you’re familiar with the positive impact physical activity has on you: not only does it keep you looking and feeling great, but exercising regularly can help you lose weight and boost your energy. Exercising regularly also has bigger benefits. It may help you live longer! According to the Framingham Heart Study, people with moderate or high levels of activity may live longer; study participants with that activity level lived 1.3 to 3.7 years longer. Additionally, exercise keeps your heart healthy; lowers your risk of some types of chronic disease, such as breast cancer and some aggressive forms of prostate cancer; improves blood flow to your brain, keeping you sharp; and helps with blood sugar control. The 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, such as brisk walking, each week, plus 2 or more days of muscle-strengthening activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (e.g., running) and 2 or more days of resistance training.

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