William J. Smith

WHEN TIMES GET TOUGH, THE TOUGH KEEP EXERCISING

Health Expert explains why decreasing your exercise activity could be the worst possibly choice at times of stress.

Participation in gym-based fitness programming has skyrocketed in the last decade. Pilates, yoga, spinning, tai chi, and personal training are common topics of conversation across America, yet even with the prevalence of health information bombarded from the press, medical community and personal trainer, consistent gym participation has recently declined.

Many attribute this decline in activity to the stressful times so many of us are experiencing."Now more than ever maintaining your workout schedule is essential for good physical and mental health," says top fitness educator and author, Will Smith.

ITS ESSENTIAL FOR MAINTAINING GOOD PHYSICAL HEALTH Flexibility, Strength, managed blood pressure, lower cholesterol. There are countless documented health benefits of fitness that outweigh not exercising.

ITS GOOD FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH It has been proven that brain function can be improved dramatically by participating in regular exercise. Increased blood flow to your brain enhances the accessible oxygen available to working neurons and essential brain functions.

ITS KEEPS YOUR MOOD POSITIVE Exercise releases endorphins. They are the body's natural 'analgesic' or pain medicine. Moreover, creating a 'natural-endorphin' high creates a great sense of wellbeing leading to increased communication with loved ones, decreases in anxiety and risk of developing depression.

ITS GOOD FOR SOCIAL SUPPORT We all need other people, it is the glue that keeps out a civilized society functioning. A fitness center offers the opportunity to interact with others that might be experiencing similar difficulties in life or health. Find a class, trainer, or fellow fitness enthusiast to buddy up for a workout.

If the monthly membership fee is a concern, find a local walking group that can push you to a sweat. Or visit an on-line fitness site like www.expertvillage.com for an on-line workout.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR William Smith, MS, NSCA, CSCS, MEPD, works with athletes and post-rehab clientele. currently consults for fitness, healthcare, and wellness centers in New York and New Jersey.

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