image courtesy runnersworld.com
Wish you could have more energy and focus during the day? Want to look and feel (and be) healthier? Exercise can be a big part of the answer, particularly when it comes to clearing your mind and helping you focus. Most people who work out notice a significant sharpening of thinking and reasoning afterwards. A recent article in the NY Times describes why this occurs:
Sustained physical exertion is mentally demanding. Countless neurons are fired, gradually exhausting the cells’ energy stores (glycogen). When you eat after exercising, the brain’s cells are refueled. However, the energy stores aren’t just brought back up to the same level they were before; the brain overcompensates by loading the brain up with even more glycogen! Hence, for about 24 hours after the exercise, cognitive function is sharpened. This is why the experts suggest exercising and refueling before study or work.
So we all know that exercise is good, but how many of us have started an exercise plan and then given up shortly later? Who hasn’t? It’s harder than it sounds. However, if you employ the right tactics, you can join the ranks of consistent exercisers. Some of the most important steps to making sure that you stick with your exercise goals is to:
1) Choose an exercise you’ll actually enjoy.
2) Log your workouts.
Logging your workouts helps you keep yourself accountable and working towards your goal. You can make an excel spreadsheet, or there’s several websites where you can do so. One of our favorites for running is dailymile.com, where it’s simple to log your miles. It makes nifty graphs and charts for you to see your progress. Whatever exercise you choose, and however you choose to record it, the health and emotional benefits of exercise are clear. Just one more reason to start your own custom fitness change plan! Also, see 10 Tips for Effective Exercise. Get out there and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, and reap all the amazing benefits of fitness.
Want to get started with change? We’re here to help. Check out Change Anything to learn how you can take control of your life and make permanent changes for the better.
