Physical activity on a regular basis can lead to a variety of great benefits such as improving health and well being and the ability to do simple everyday tasks with less effort.

Longevity: New research clearly demonstrates that physical activity performed regularly, has a most profound effect on your health.

Heart Disease: CHD Coronary heart disease has declined yet is still the leading cause of death in the US.

Obesity: is not the sole answer to the very complex issue of obesity; however, exercise has a positive impact on maintaining lean body mass, while encouraging the loss of fat weight. Someone who regularly challenges his or her cardio respiratory system through cardiovascular exercise become more capable of mobilizing and metabolizing fat. He or she can also breakdown and utilize carbohydrates more efficiently than a sedentary person.

Psychological: A new position statement by the International Society of Sport Psychology summarizes a number of psychological benefits of physical activity, including improvement in self confidence, tensions relief, mood changes, less depression, increased metal well being, increased alertness and energy and the ability to cope with daily activities and increased enjoinment of social contacts.

Osteoporosis: The good news is that low impact workouts such as walking and jogging which increase mechanical stress on the skeletal system may reduce or reverse bone mineral loss especially in women. *Reference: Len Kravitz, PhD. Health promotion and exercise science, University of New Mexico.

Why regular exercise: Regular exercise might be the key to keeping older adults in the driver’s seat longer according to a study conducted by researchers at Yale University School of Medicine. Yale evaluated a group of older adults on their driving performance then reassessed their driving skills again 3 months later. The study revealed that participants who regularly engaged in exercises focusing on flexibility, hand and leg coordination and speed of movement made fewer "critical driving errors" than those drivers not engaged in a regular exercise routine .

Regular physical activity is proven to help in the fight again chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and osteoarthritis. **Improving flexibility balance, strength and coordination can lessen the risk of falls that may lead to injury and loss of independence. One out of every three adults after age 65 fall yearly.

Helpful hints by Carey Fraley, District Instructor Coordination for SilverSneakers®, Senior Program Director for the Sports Mall, Murray, Utah. Owner of Fitnessesities Instructor Training.