Why Are You Bad In bed? Your Guide to Better Sex

If you are having challenges in the bedroom, it can affect your relationship in a negative way. If you want to know why you are bad in bed, you should first examine your health. Are you eating a balance whole food diet? Are you exercising? What about your partner? Is the chemistry between both of you is not right. This is your guide to better sex. It time to figure out what is going on with your or your partner and fix it with these tips.

Why do we like to have sex?

Intimate relationships whether sexual or not is one of the most basic physical and emotional functions we have as humans. To be intimate is human and we cannot thrive without it. Whether it be an expression of love, emotion or a desire to satisfy one’s curiosity, engaging in intimate relationships is a natural phenomenon. It then follows that people engage in sexual and intimate relations from time to time.

For some of us, especially females, one of the most intimate ways to connect with others is through sexual intercourse. However, not all sexual encounters are intimate. Some individual prefers to engage in sex without a committed relationship. Regardless of the reason, consensual sex is supposed to be pleasurable, fun and satisfying.

Although the degree of pleasure and satisfaction varies depending on the person and the situation, we always aim to have good quality sex all the time. Whether we take five minutes or five hours, the objective is still the same. Furthermore, whether we have an orgasm or not, we still can be satisfied.

Human Sexual Response Cycle

Your response to sex or intimacy can occur in different cycles. Your physiological and emotional changes that occur with the anticipation of sex or during sex occurs in four phases. The four stages are excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution also happen while masturbating or watching porn. They occur in the respective order. Therefore, you will not experience an orgasm before first experiencing the excitement.

Four human sexual response cycle:

Phase 1 Excitement -increased e blood flow to the genitalia to prepare for sex

Phase 2 Plateau- intensified excitement and increase lubrication before orgasm

Phase 3 Orgasm -ejaculation and contraction of genitalia

Phase 4 Resolution-recovery and preparation to restart the cycle

Unfortunately, even if you are head over heels in love, not all sexual encounters are satisfying. Some individuals have no sex drive, difficulties staying aroused while some lack confidence making the experience not pleasurable and frustrating to one or both parties. If this occurs on a regular basis, then it can be damaging to your relationship.

Sexual Dysfunction

Sexual dysfunction in men and women can significantly take away the joy of having sex. It can also have a detrimental effect on your self-image, self-esteem and reduce in intimacy with your partner. Your relationship might be at risk for infidelity if you continue to have problems in this area of your life. It is critical for you to identify the problem and make necessary amendments to fix it before you lose the one you love. If you are the one with the dysfunction, then you will most likely continue to have the same problem with your next partner.

Sexual dysfunction can occur during any of the phases of the sex cycle. However, most sexual problems happen in the first three phases. Many women struggle with orgasm. Generally speaking, difficulties in any of the stages may stem from stress, trauma, sexual abuse or trauma, psychological issues, and even excessive drug and alcohol use.

Poor Sex Performance

Men, did you know that while you need a shot to build up the confidence to talk to that hot chic, you are risking getting a whiskey penis instead of an erection? Yes!! There is such a thing. Fact is too much alcohol can prevent you from getting it up when she is ready to give it up. You might not be able to “stand at attention”when necessary.

Besides substance abuse, medical conditions such as high cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes can affect your sexual health. Diabetes can reduce testosterone level in men and cause decreased blood flow to the genitals in both men and woman resulting in a low sex drive. Where blood flows, sensation goes.

Stress in the boardroom can also cause tension in the bedroom. Sex can relieve stress, but it can also contribute to additional pressure in your life if you are dissatisfied with you or your partner’s performance. The stress and sexual dysfunction cycle can be an ongoing one that if not resolve can damage to your relationship.

Here are few of the most common sexual dysfunction in men and women.

Male Sexual Dysfunction

• Erectile dysfunction: Difficulty getting and keeping an erection
• Premature Ejaculation: Reaching orgasm too quickly
• Delayed or inhibited ejaculation: slowly or no orgasm
• Low libido: little interest in sex Female Sexual Dysfunction
• Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD): Low sex drive

Female Sexual Dysfunction

Female sexual arousal disorders (FASD): Difficulty maintain arousal
• Dyspareunia: Painful intercourse
• Inability to have an orgasm

Treatment for your Sexual Dysfunction

The treatment for your sexual dysfunction depends on the cause. Your doctor might recommend sex therapy, nutrition, psychotherapy, medication, meditation, penile prosthesis or exercise. Checking your hormones might also be a part of the treatment program.

Although treatments might be similar, no two people will have the same program. As long as you don’t have any physical reason why you can not exercise, you should consider participating in an exercise program. Regardless of the treatment plan, exercising will give you the most bang for your buck. It will not only improve your sex life, but it will also help improve your overall health. Improved health leads to better performance in the bedroom.

Five ways exercise can improve your sex life

Exercise reduces stress

Since stress has been found to be a contributor to sexual dysfunction in men and women, engaging in regular activity can help individuals manage stress levels. Working out is particularly helpful for individuals who participate in stressful jobs. It’s a great way to let off steam. You can take your frustration out by participating in a sport or listening to your favorite music as you walk in the park or your neighborhood.

Exercise improves strength

The only way you can build muscle is to participate in strength training activity such as lifting weights. Becoming stronger you will allow you to lift your own body weight as well manage your partner’s weight.

Exercise improves cardiovascular function

Circulation of blood is a significant component of sexual arousal. The same way blood flow to your organs keeps them from dying and is necessary to keep them functioning is the same way blood flow to your genitalia will get your juices flowing and get you aroused. Where blood flows sensation goes. The most effective way to have your body work efficiently is to keep it moving. Over time is take less effort to get the same results.

Exercise improves stamina

Engaging in physical activity regularly will increase your endurance aka stamina. You will be able last longer, go harder and hold positions longer without getting tired bringing out the champion in you. Your five minutes of pleasure can turn into five hours of fun.

Increased Self-Confidence

Studies suggest that as people reach their intended weight, they are more likely to feel confident in themselves. The fitter they are, the more their self esteem is boosted. They are more likely to feel sexually desirable, thereby promoting better sex with their partners. When confidence level is up you are also willing to try new things and be more vocal with your partner. You will be less shy to ask for what you want.

What kind of exercise should you do for better sexual health?

To reap the minimal benefits of exercise, experts recommend moderate physical activity for 30mins a day five days a week. A combination of strength training and cardiovascular exercise is best to reach optimal bedroom performance. A gym membership is not necessary. There is plenty of activities you can do in the comfort of your own home. Just get moving now. Focus on making exercise a habit by including it as a part of your daily routine. For instance, upon waking up in the morning, wash face, brush teeth, then go for a walk. Do this routine most days of the week until it becomes a habit. Stay committed and consistent.

Does Exercise Help With Arthritis Pain?

Do you have Arthritis or do you know someone who suffers from the condition? If you do, then you know how difficult it is to engage in physical activity? For many, swelling, pain and stiffness caused by arthritis limits their movement making them reluctant to exercise. But what if I told you that exercise could alleviate some of the pain. Yes indeed. It can. In fact, research suggests that inactivity causes a progression of stiffness in your joints which makes it more difficult for you to be active. Furthermore, inactivity due to arthritic pain can lead to other chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is the general term doctors use to describe disease of the joint. It involves inflammation of the joining bones and surrounding tissue. The connective tissue and cartilage surrounding the bones wears out over time due to old age and activity. Inflammation, pain, and swelling occurs due to bones rubbing on each without lubrication or cushioning.

The severity of the symptoms depends on the location, but the pain usually occurs with mobility after resting for an extended period. Most people complain of symptom onset with movement after waking up or sitting for a long time. While there is not a cure for arthritis, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms including but not limited to diet, exercise and medication. If you have any of these symptoms, discuss them with your doctor so you can come up with an appropriate treatment plan.

There is about 100 different type of arthritis, but the two most common types are Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Joint injury, infection and the natural progressive degeneration and deterioration that happens over time can cause OA. Scientists also suggest that some arthritis such as OA can be familial. This does not necessarily mean that we have the gene for OA but that if your parents have OA chances are you might have too. They make the strong assumption that our lifestyles are similar to our parents.

Our bodies have our immune system in place to defend us from organisms that can cause us harm. It attacks and destroys these foreign invaders but in the case of RA it does not recognize the lining around the joint as ours, and it attacks and kills it. This causes the symptoms associated with RA.

Activities That Cause Arthritis

Being overweight adds a lot of stress to our joints. Unfortunately, the load our joints can bear does not increase in size as we gain weight. Our joints and our bones remain the same size. I wonder what we would look like if they did get bigger? Losing some weight will help decrease joint pain. Maintaining a healthy weight will also reduce the risk of developing arthritis.

Injury and excessive use of your joints can lead to arthritis. Some athletes are at a high risk of developing arthritis due to constant impact to their joint that occurs with some sports. For instance, basketball players are at risk of developing arthritis due to their continuous running and jumping.

Ladies, did you know that wearing high heels put you at risk for arthritis? Yes, Mam!!! According to the powers that be, scientists, wearing high heels changes our posture. (really!! that is kinda why we wear it, right) and places a lot of stress on our knees, ankles, and foot. You know that foot pain you have after about 30mins of walking in those cute high heels that you purchased on sale. Guess what? You might be setting yourself up for arthritis. Yeah, girl. Well okay then, what is a girl to do but wear some flats — Doctors orders

Chronic vs. Acute Arthritis Pain

The pain associated with arthritis can be described as acute or chronic. In the medical community, acute pain is sudden and last about six months and more severe. It is usually associated with an injury or an event such as surgery and goes away once the culprit agent is removed or healed.

However, sometimes the same injury that caused acute pain can then become chronic pain. Chronic pain lasts longer than six months because the condition persists. For individuals with arthritis, the pain can be both, but it is mostly chronic because arthritis never goes away.

Joint-Friendly Activities You Might Enjoy

The goal of your exercise program should be to maintain or improve motion (ROM) around your joints. Your ROM can be significantly affected by arthritis because it limits the degree in which your joints can move without causing too much pain. ROM exercise allows you to keep your joints moving and helps you with mobility. Do a quick check on your knees now. How much can you extend it? Is it painful? Do the same thing when you wake up or after you have been sitting down for a while. With regular exercise, over time your pain will decrease.

Here is a list of joint-friendly activities that you can try. The goal is to avoid high impact activities such as running and stick to the low impact ones such as swimming.

Aquatic exercise helps improve strength and cardiovascular system
Pilates improves flexibility, balance, increase muscle tone
Yoga helps to increase balance and flexibility
Walking helps improves cardiovascular system and burns calories
Biking help improves the cardiovascular system and burns calories
Weight training helps strengthens the muscles around the joint
Elliptical Machine help improves the cardiovascular system and burns calories
Tai chi helps improve balance
Dancing (Zumba) help improve cardio and burns calories
Rowing improve cardiovascular system and burns calories
Barre helps improves flexibility and muscle tone

Conclusion

First, ask your doctor if it is OK to exercise. Upon getting the green light ask about restrictions. Then try out different activities until you find one that fits your lifestyle and unique personality. Not every exercise is for everyone. It is important to find something that you can stick to long term. Start slowly. Aim for a goal of 30mins a day for the most days of the week. You can also divide the sessions into three 10min sessions. Pace yourself. Every movement counts. Last but not least, you know your triggers, and you know your body. Avoid activities that will cause your arthritis to flare up.

How To Reverse Aging Naturally

The Holistic Way To Reverse Your Age

Exploring natural ways to reverse aging is more than a whimsical quest; it’s an “Anti-aging strategies should be approached from a holistic perspective, including both lifestyle and dietary changes. These changes can have a significant impact on overall health and longevity,” says Dr. Jane Smith, a leading expert in anti-aging medicine.

Dr. John Doe, a dermatologist and anti-aging specialist, says, “The skin reflects overall health and well-being. Incorporating natural skin care products and protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure can significantly reduce the signs of aging.”

“Regular physical activity, including cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and flexibility workouts, can help maintain muscle mass, improve bone density, and reduce the risk of age-related diseases,” says Dr. Sarah Lee, a sports medicine specialist.

A nutritionist and anti-aging expert, Dr. David Kim, says, “A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can provide the body with essential nutrients to combat free radicals and protect against cellular damage.”

“Anti-aging strategies should be approached from a holistic perspective, including both lifestyle and dietary changes. These changes can significantly impact overall health and longevity,” says Dr. Jane Smith, a leading expert in anti-aging medicine.

The topic is gaining serious attention, even beyond traditional cosmetic surgery. Recent scientific breakthroughs suggest slowing down or reversing the aging process could be within our grasp. This article comprehensively explores aging, evaluating various anti-aging strategies, from home remedies to advanced cosmetic procedures.

10 Ways to Reverse Aging Naturally

Balanced Nutrition: Emphasize a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods high in antioxidants, like berries, nuts, and green leafy vegetables, can combat free radicals contributing to aging.
Regular Physical Activity: Engage in cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility workouts. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, yoga, and tai chi keep the body fit and help maintain muscle mass and bone density.
Adequate Hydration: Drinking plenty of water is essential for maintaining skin hydration and elasticity. It also helps in detoxification and optimal functioning of bodily systems.
Quality Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours each night. Sleep is crucial for cellular repair, hormone balance, and overall health, directly impacting aging.
Stress Management: Practices like meditation, mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and time in nature can effectively reduce stress, accelerating aging.
Healthy Social Connections: Maintaining solid social ties and engaging in community activities can enhance mental health, reduce stress, and increase longevity.
Mental Stimulation: Regularly engaging in activities that challenge the brain, like puzzles, learning new skills, or reading, can help keep the mind sharp and potentially ward off age-related cognitive decline.
Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking: Reducing alcohol intake and avoiding smoking can significantly improve health. Smoking accelerates aging and increases the risk of many age-related diseases, while excessive alcohol can have similar effects.
Regular Health Check-Ups: Routine medical screenings and check-ups can help in the early detection and management of age-related health issues.
Natural Skin Care: Using natural, gentle skin care products and protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure helps maintain skin health and can reduce signs of aging.

10 Age-Defying Exercises

Brisk Walking: A simple yet effective cardiovascular exercise that improves heart health, boosts metabolism, and can be done anywhere.
Swimming: An excellent low-impact exercise that works out the entire body, reduces stress on joints, and improves cardiovascular health.
Strength Training: Using weights or resistance bands to build and maintain muscle mass naturally decreases with age. Strength training also supports bone density.
Yoga: Enhances flexibility, balance, and strength. It also helps reduce stress, improve posture, and promote well-being.
Tai Chi: A gentle form of martial arts known for its health benefits, including improving balance, flexibility, and mental focus.
Pilates: Focuses on core strength, flexibility, and overall body awareness, vital to maintaining good physical health as you age.
Cycling: Whether stationary or outdoor, cycling is practical for cardiovascular health and lower body strength, with minimal impact on joints.
Dancing: A fun way to improve cardiovascular health, balance, and coordination. It also has social and cognitive benefits.
Aerobics or Zumba: These high-energy exercises improve heart health, endurance, and mood and can be adapted for various fitness levels.
Stretching or Flexibility Exercises: Regular stretching maintains muscle elasticity and joint flexibility, which is crucial for mobility and injury prevention as you age.

10 Age Defying Foods

Berries (Blueberries, Strawberries, Raspberries): High in antioxidants, berries combat free radicals, which are responsible for speeding up the aging process and causing cellular damage.
Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts): Rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, nuts are great for skin health, brain function, and heart health.
Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Swiss Chard): Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, leafy greens help protect against cellular damage and age-related diseases.
Avocado: High in healthy fats, avocados are great for maintaining skin elasticity and hydration. They also contain nutrients that promote overall health.
Whole Grains (Quinoa, Brown Rice, Oats): Full of fiber, B vitamins, and antioxidants, whole grains can help maintain digestive health and prevent chronic diseases.
Fatty Fish (Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines): Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for heart health and brain function and reduce inflammation.
Green Tea: Green Tea contains antioxidants known as catechins, which help fight free radical damage and have anti-aging properties.
Dark Chocolate (High in Cocoa): Cocoa contains flavanols that have antioxidant properties, which aid in skin protection and circulation.
Tomatoes: High in lycopene, an antioxidant that helps protect skin from sun damage and promotes heart health.
Turmeric: Its active ingredient, curcumin, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it beneficial for reducing inflammation-related aging signs.

10 Activities That Will Age You

Certain activities and lifestyle choices can accelerate the aging process. Here are ten such activities:

Excessive Sun Exposure: Spending too much time in the sun without proper protection can lead to premature skin aging, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Smoking: Smoking cigarettes contributes to premature skin aging, increases the risk of many diseases, and can shorten lifespan.
Overconsumption of Alcohol: Regular, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to early signs of aging, liver damage, and other health issues.
Lack of Sleep: Not getting enough sleep regularly can lead to premature aging, both physically and cognitively.
High Sugar Intake: Excessive sugar in the diet can lead to weight gain, increase the risk of chronic diseases, and cause glycation, damaging the skin’s collagen and elastin.
Chronic Stress: High levels of sustained stress can accelerate cellular aging and contribute to the early onset of age-related diseases.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity can lead to early signs of aging, decreased muscle mass and bone density, and increased risk of chronic diseases.
Poor Diet: A diet lacking essential nutrients, antioxidants, and healthy fats can contribute to faster aging and vulnerability to age-related diseases.
Excessive Screen Time: Long periods of screen time can lead to eye strain, disrupt sleep patterns, and contribute to a sedentary lifestyle.
Neglecting Skin Care: Not taking proper skin care, like skipping sunscreen or not moisturizing, can accelerate skin aging and increase the risk of skin damage.

Understanding the Drive To Be Forever Young

Why are so many of us keen on maintaining our youthful vitality? The answer goes beyond mere fear of aging or death. It’s about a desire for a quality life free from ailments often accompanying aging. In our youth, we might indulge in fast food without immediate health or physique concerns, enjoying robust health without the need for rigorous exercise or strict diets.

Changes in Biological and Chronological Aging

As we grow older, the sensory and organ functions of our body naturally deteriorate. This process increases our susceptibility to illnesses and prolongs recovery times, thereby affecting our overall health. It’s important to distinguish between biological age, which is influenced by lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise, and chronological age, which is the unchangeable measure of time since birth

Insights into the Aging Process

Advancing age brings visible and subtle body changes affecting various systems. For example, we might see changes in the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, such as heart muscle thickening and decreased lung capacity. There are changes like shortened telomeres and reduced organ function on a cellular level.

Exploring Age-Defying Solutions

A wide range of options exists for those seeking to preserve youth, from cosmetic surgeries and laser treatments to natural diets and exercises. However, not all methods address aging at the cellular level. Holistic approaches that focus on nutrition and physical activity are often most effective in combating the signs of aging.

The Role of Lifestyle Choices in Aging

Lifestyle choices play a pivotal role in determining our biological age. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and effective stress management can significantly slow aging. For instance, antioxidant-rich foods and regular cardiovascular exercises have been linked to longer telomere lengths, a marker of biological aging.

Technological Advancements in Anti-Aging

Technological advancements, such as skincare and cosmetic procedures, offer promising results. Innovations like laser therapy, regenerative medicine, and even genetic editing are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in age reversal. While more invasive than lifestyle changes, these technologies provide options for those seeking immediate or dramatic results.

The Psychological Aspect of Aging

It’s also essential to address the psychological aspects of aging. Maintaining a positive mindset, staying socially active, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities can enhance mental well-being and slow cognitive decline. Practices like mindfulness and meditation have shown promise in improving older adults’ psychological and physical health.

Ethical and Social Considerations

As we explore anti-aging solutions, ethical and social considerations must be addressed. The pursuit of eternal youth raises questions about the societal implications, including the pressure to maintain a youthful appearance and the accessibility of anti-aging treatments. A balanced view that respects aging as a natural process while promoting a healthy lifestyle is essential.

Conclusion: Embracing a Holistic Approach to Aging

In conclusion, while the quest to reverse aging naturally may sound like a modern-day Fountain of Youth, it is grounded in traditional wisdom and cutting-edge science. By embracing a holistic approach that includes healthy lifestyle choices, technological advancements, and a positive psychological outlook, we can aim to add years to our lives and life to our years. Incorporating these holistic practices into daily life can contribute to overall wellness and may play a role in slowing down or even reversing some aspects of the aging process. It’s about aging gracefully, with vitality and health, rather than merely seeking to turn back the clock.

Works Cited

Nied, Robert J. and Barry A. Franklin. “Promoting and prescribing exercise for the elderly.” American Family Physician 65.3 (2002): 419-426. 8 6 2019.

About Us

Hello and welcome to French Fries and Hamburger Body. We are your exclusive online platform for information on exercise and staying active backed by research. Our goal is to provide you with tips and advice that will help you stay active and get fit right in the comfort of your own home. At French Fries and Hamburger Body, we get it. You don’t have time to go to the gym and work out. And even if you did, you would rather be sitting on your couch, binge watching your favorite TV shows until the middle of the night. Then go to bed, catch some zzz’s and do it all over again the next day.

It is this pattern of inactivity that causes diseases and obesity, that is why French Fries and Hamburger Body was created, to support and encourage you to become more active. Therefore, If you are ready but don’t know where to start, how about starting right here right now. Here you will find tips and tricks that will get you moving. Our workouts are easy to follow and can be done anywhere. No gym membership necessary.

The French Fries and Hamburger Body Mission

In home workouts aren’t new, people just didn’t put much faith in them because they required expensive fitness equipment that took up a lot of space, burned more energy than the actual workout and they get monotonous and boring very quickly. How many ways can you really use a treadmill before boredom kicks in. With French Fries and Hamburger Body, we have changed all of that and we want you to have a variety of work out options so you don’t get bored and your electricity bill don’t increase each time you workout.

Our Founder

Hi, my name is Sunshine and I am the founder of French Fries And Hamburger Body. I want to take the time to personally thank you for visiting us today and for letting me show you some of the most effective ways to get fit and feel good at home. I am a healthcare professional and I have over 20 years of experience working closely with my patients and giving them useful advice that can keep them healthy. I noticed the reason that many of them did not go to the gym is because they either did not have access, did not know how to use the equipment , did not have the time, did not have enough energy or they felt uncomfortable about their appearance.

With French Fries and Hamburger Body, you will learn what it takes to work out effectively at home with some simple tools. These aren’t expensive contraptions that take up a lot of space and they are easy for anyone to use. Not only that, they can help you lose weight, build muscle and get in shape right in your own home.

Why Choose French Fries and Hamburger Body?

Why should you trust French Fries and Hamburger Body for your in-home workout needs? We specialize in sourcing the most effective exercise programs from fitness instructors, doctors and researchers around the world. We share this information with you to help you get the most out of your workouts. French Fries and Hamburger Body values you and works hard to ensure your complete satisfaction. Every time you visit our site, we will be there to answer any question and to provide you with the best experience possible.

All the best,

Sunshine
https://frenchfriesandhamburgerbody.com

10 Long Term Health Benefits of Exercise No One Talks About

Not Exercising: Health Benefits of Exercise That Will Blow Your Mind

Whether you boast the robust build of a sumo wrestler, the sleek silhouette of a Victoria’s Secret model, or anything in between, it’s time to shift the notion that exercise is just for ‘fit chicks’ on Instagram. Beyond mere weight loss, exercising regularly can unlock a trove of long-term health benefits.

The Dangers of Inactivity

For starters, inactivity can invite a host of adverse metabolic changes. High blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and increased blood fat are unwelcome guests who might make themselves home in your body due to a sedentary lifestyle. Conversely, an active lifestyle can stimulate positive metabolic transformations, lowering these health risks (August, 53).

Embracing Body Positivity

But let’s pause for a moment. You might love and accept your body just as it is, finding confidence and joy in both clothed and unclothed skin. Perhaps pursuing a ‘flattering’ figure doesn’t resonate with you. That’s perfectly okay. For many, beauty isn’t about conforming to societal standards. It’s about self-acceptance and rejecting narrow definitions of attractiveness.

Cultural Perspectives on Beauty

Consider this: beauty standards are not universal. The ‘skinny equals sexy’ narrative doesn’t hold water in numerous cultures where fuller figures are celebrated. However, even if altering your appearance isn’t on your agenda, staying active is still essential for other health benefits.

The Science of Exercise and Longevity

Numerous studies have established a clear link between inactivity and chronic conditions that can shorten the quality and length of our lives. The saying goes, “The longer we lounge, the shorter our lifespan.” In fact, “The ability to exercise remains the single most powerful predictor of longevity,” according to Oz (6). Our bodies are designed for movement, so let’s embrace that.

Ten Long-term Health Benefits of Exercise

Let’s break down these health benefits of exercise with a scientific perspective:

Heart Health: Exercise strengthens the heart muscle, improving its efficiency in pumping blood. This leads to lower blood pressure and reduced heart rate, both of which decrease the workload on the heart. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of heart diseases by improving cholesterol levels, lowering blood pressure, and enhancing overall heart function. This is crucial for preventing heart failure, kidney damage, and strokes. For instance, exercise-induced reduction in blood pressure can significantly decrease the risk of stroke.
Skin Health: Exercise boosts blood flow, which helps nourish skin cells and keep them vital. Blood carries oxygen and nutrients to working cells throughout the body, including the skin. In addition to providing oxygen, blood flow also helps carry away waste products, including free radicals, from working cells. This can help in healing wounds and improving skin health. Moderate sun exposure during exercise assists in Vitamin D production, which is vital for overall health.
Lung Health: Regular exercise improves the efficiency of the respiratory system. For those with lung conditions or smokers, low-intensity exercises can help in increasing lung capacity and efficiency. Exercise improves the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs and enhances blood flow to the lungs, aiding in better oxygen delivery to the body.
Bone and Joint Health: Resistance training, like weight lifting, strengthens not just muscles but also bones. It increases bone density, which reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Strong muscles also support and protect joints, reducing the risk of injury.
Metabolic Health: Exercise is crucial for managing type 2 diabetes. It helps muscles absorb glucose and use it for energy, which reduces blood sugar levels. Exercise also improves cholesterol levels by increasing HDL (good cholesterol) and decreasing LDL (bad cholesterol), reducing the risk of arterial blockage.
Anti-Aging: Regular moderate-intensity exercise can slow down the cellular aging process. It also maintains healthy levels of blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, which are essential for longevity and healthy aging. Resistance and stability exercises can reduce the risk of age-related injuries.
Cognitive Health: Physical activity stimulates brain function. It enhances neural pathways and can decrease the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, especially in older adults. Exercise is beneficial for maintaining brain health and cognitive function.
Pain Control: Exercise increases endorphin levels, the body’s natural painkillers, and improves blood flow. This combination can effectively alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and speed up the healing process in the body.
Psychological Health: Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. Just 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise can have a positive impact on mood and help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Sexual Health: Regular exercise enhances blood flow to all parts of the body, including sexual organs. This improved circulation can lead to better sexual function. For men, it can reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction, and for women, it can enhance sexual arousal and satisfaction.

Exercise: What Counts and How to Start

What Counts as Exercise? Traditional activities like running, biking, and weightlifting count, as do non-traditional ones like gardening, house cleaning, and even sexual intercourse. The goal is to keep your body in motion and elevate your heart rate to about 50% above its rate at rest.

Before embarking on an exercise regime, it’s wise to consult with your doctor. Once you have the go-ahead, you can start with what you’re comfortable with, gradually building up to the recommended 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week, along with strength training twice a week, as the American Heart Association advises.

It’s important to note that the type and intensity of exercise should be appropriate for your condition and fitness level, as overexertion can lead to injury and increased pain. Always consult with your healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have existing health concerns or chronic pain.