Reasons to Work Out That Have Nothing to Do With How You Look

Last week we shared a reel that shared some non-aesthetic reasons to pump some iron. For this monday musing we felt it would be beneficial to expand on those reasons and think about how we can look at strength training as a form of self care. 

1. For Feel-Good Hormones That Boost Your Mood

Exercise is a natural mood enhancer. When you work out, your body releases endorphins, which are known as the "feel-good" hormones. These chemicals help reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and combat depression. A good workout can leave you feeling euphoric and more relaxed, making it a fantastic way to help improve your mental health and overall well-being.

2. So You Can Get Back Up When You Fall Down

Physical fitness is crucial for maintaining strength, balance, and coordination. These factors are especially important as we age. By staying active, you can enhance your body’s ability to recover from falls and prevent injuries. Not only that, it makes everyday tasks that little bit easier.

3. To Remind Yourself That You Are Worth Taking Care Of

Taking the time to work out is a powerful act of self-care. It sends a message to yourself that your health and well-being are priorities. This self-affirming practice can boost your self-esteem and remind you that you deserve to be taken care of, because you do. It’s a great way of investing in yourself and acknowledging your worth.

4. To Maintain Independence as You Age

Maintaining an active lifestyle is key to helping preserve your independence as you get older. Regular exercise helps keep your muscles strong and your joints flexible, which can enhance your mobility and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

5. To Feel a Sense of Accomplishment

Setting and achieving goals provides a profound sense of accomplishment. Whether it's mastering a new yoga pose, hitting a new deadlift pb or simply showing up on a day when you didn’t feel like it, these achievements boost your confidence and self-esteem and all deserve celebration. 

While changing the way you look is typically the focus of marketing campaigns to joining a gym, the benefits of working out go far beyond aesthetics. Embrace these deeper motivations for working out and enjoy a more fulfilling fitness journey.