You know, exercise isn’t just about getting fit or staying healthy—it does a lot more than that. Of course, it's great for your heart, helps you manage your weight, and keeps your muscles and bones strong. It even lowers your risk of chronic diseases like diabetes or high blood pressure. But what people sometimes overlook is how much it helps with your mind too.

When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are those feel-good chemicals that boost your mood. It can really help with stress, anxiety, and even depression. Plus, it helps you sleep better and think more clearly. I’ve noticed I feel more focused and energized on the days I move my body.

But honestly, one of the biggest things is the social part. Whether it’s going to a group fitness class, joining a sports team, or just going on walks with friends, it’s such a great way to connect with other people. It keeps you from feeling isolated, especially if you're working from home or going through a tough time.

And when you're part of a community that exercises together—like a running group or even a neighborhood fitness challenge—it really builds this sense of belonging. People support each other, cheer each other on, and it makes sticking to a routine so much easier. It’s not just about health; it’s about connection, motivation, and feeling like you’re part of something bigger.

So yeah, exercise is good for your body and your mind—but it’s also really powerful for your social life and sense of community.

why should you exercise?

This might be a strange question. It is no secret that research is finding more and more evidence that the positive effects of exercise can lead to significant improvements in the burden of many physical, metabolic, and mental health conditions without any medications.

However, this is a question that you need to ask yourself. What is your “WHY” to start exercising and keep on showing up day after day, week after week, for yourself in pursuit of the best version of yourself.

Pursuing physical, mental, and metabolic fitness is a journey as the positive changes with exercise are not realized overnight. They take months, if not years, of consistent and progressive effort.

Starting—and sticking with—an exercise routine can be challenging, but the rewards are well worth it. Regular physical activity improves physical and mental health, boosts energy, reduces disease risk, and even enhances sleep and brain function.

To build lasting habits:

• Choose activities you enjoy – this is the number one predictor of success in both starting and maintaining your fitness journey motivation. It doesn’t matter what you do, success and developing a habitual approach to exercise is dependent on the joy that your chose activity or activities brings you.

• Set realistic goals – while the recommended amount of physical activity is 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise every week, the way you approach this can be different for everyone.

  • You might not be able to do 30 minutes all at once. So, break it up and do three 10 minute sessions in a day, or two 15 minute sessions. The stress and loads you apply to your body accumulate over the day.

• Track progress – use fitness journals, apps, or fitness trackers to monitor your progress over time. Here is a link to some apps that you can use free of charge..

• Reframe your mindset – When you begin to see movement and the ability to exercise as a gift—not a chore—living a healthy, active life transforms into something you get to do, not something you have to do.

  • That mindset shift is where true sustainability begins, turning effort into habit and intention into lifestyle.

• Celebrate small wins – consistency is more important than perfection.

• Get social – find a workout buddy or join a group to stay accountable.

• Sneak in movement – take the stairs, walk during breaks, or stretch at your desk.

When you begin to see movement and the ability to exercise as a gift—not a chore—living a healthy, active life transforms into something you get to do, not something you have to do.

That mindset shift is where true sustainability begins, turning effort into habit and intention into lifestyle.