Dr. Marek Bentkowski,
Family Practice - NorthPointe Clinic

Regardless of age, weight, or athletic ability, aerobic activity is good for you. Dr. Marek Bentkowski, Family Practice Physician at NorthPointe Clinic says that as your body adapts to regular exercise, you’ll get stronger and more efficient. Aerobic exercise is a moderate level of activity for an extended period of time— jogging, biking, swimming, stair climbing, treadmill, etc.

The following are great benefits of aerobic exercise.

1. Keep excess pounds at bay. Combined with a healthy diet, aerobic exercise helps you lose weight.
2. Increase your stamina. Over the long term, you’ll enjoy increased stamina and reduced fatigue.
3. Ward off viral illnesses. Exercise activates your immune system, leaving you less susceptible to colds and flu.
4. Reduce health risks. Reduce your risk of obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and certain types of cancer.
5. Manage chronic conditions. Exercise lowers your blood pressure and controls you blood sugar.
6. Strengthen your heart. A stronger heart pumps blood more efficiently.
7. Keep your arteries clear. You will boost your “good” cholesterol (HDL) and lower the “bad” (LDL).
8. Improve your mood. Exercise can ease depression and reduce tension.
9. Stay active and independent as you get older. Activity helps maintain mobility and keeps your mind sharp.
10. Live longer. Those who exercise live longer than those who don’t exercise regularly.

Spinning classes offer one of the best cardio workouts.

If you need to increase your activity level, you may want to consider a NorthPointe wellness membership.

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