1. Exercise reverses the detrimental effects of stress. Exercise boosts levels of soothing brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. On a cellular level, exercise may even reverse some of the damage caused by stress that can accelerate the aging process.
2. Exercise lifts depression. Sustained, sweat-inducing activity can reduce symptoms of depression about as effectively as antidepressants, according to a recent study.
3. Exercise improves learning. Exercise increases the level of the chemicals in the brain — called growth factors — that help make new brain cells.
4. Exercise builds self-esteem and improves body image. Even simply seeing fitness improvements, like running a faster mile or lifting more weight, can improve your self-esteem and body image.
5. Exercise leaves you feeling euphoric. High-intensity exercise can leave you with a feeling of euphoria. Try running, biking, or swimming as fast as you can for 30 to 40 seconds and then reduce your speed to a gentle pace for five minutes before sprinting again.
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