Q: What are the mental benefits of exercise?
A: Here is a small list of the mental benefits of exercise:

• helps to lower stress
• releases tension and anxiety
• relaxation periods are more recuperative
• better mood
• reduced depression
• improved focus, memory, acuity, and work performance
• improved self-esteem, confidence, motivation, and sense of self-worth

Q: What are the physical benefits of exercise?
A: Here is a small list of the physical benefits of exercise:

• reduces risk of severe diseases (Alzheimer’s Disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis, heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol)
• slows down the aging process
• better quality of sleep and more energy
• better complexion and body shape
• improves appetite and desire to eat healthy
• increases the efficiency and strength of the heart and liver
• improves strength, circulation, and reaction time
• allows for efficent oxygen transportation to the body
• burns fat and helps to keep weight off
• strengthens the immune system
• improves flexibility, motion, agility, coordination, endurance, and energy
• strengthens muscles, bones, joints, and posture
• improves metabolism and the body's way of burning calories

This list was culminated from the following sources: (Each opens in a new window)

• http://tms.ecol.net/fitness/benefits.htm
• http://www.askmen.com/sports/fitness_top_ten/25_fitness_list.html
• http://www.nutristrategy.com/health.htm
• http://www.busywomensfitness.com/exercise-benefits.html
• http://www.alzinfo.org/news/NewsArticle10-13-2005-11-52-AM.aspx
• http://www.webmd.com/content/article/117/112573.htm
• http://www.mamashealth.com/exercise/mindbody.asp