Why Men Should Work Out

Men need to work out for numerous reasons, from physical health to mental well-being. The American Council of Exercise states that the general guideline for adults is to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week (Journal of the American Council of Exercise).

Here are five benefits of exercise for men:

1. Builds Muscle Mass and Strength

One of the most obvious benefits of regular exercise for men is that it can help to build muscle mass and strength. This can lead to improved performance in daily activities and increased confidence and self-esteem. Additionally, building muscle can help to boost metabolism, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight. To personalize your optimal workout regimen, it is helpful to know how your body is genetically designed. I recommend all of my clients take our Exercise & Nutrition DNA Test so that they can gain access to a customized Genetic Action Plan that will lay out exactly what types of workouts benefit their body best.

2. Improves Cardiovascular Health

Regular exercise can also significantly benefit cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Aerobic exercise such as running, cycling, or swimming can help to improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.

3. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Exercise is also an effective way to reduce stress and anxiety. Physical activity releases endorphins, natural mood boosters that can help lower stress hormone cortisol levels. This can improve mental well-being and a greater sense of overall calm. It helps you overcome challenges, work toward a goal, and appreciate your body’s strength. In particular, it can increase your self-efficacy — the belief that you can succeed at or perform a task — which can greatly improve your confidence (1, 2, 3, 4).

4. Boosts Brain Function

Regular exercise also improves cognitive function, including memory, focus, and decision-making skills. This is because physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that can help to improve brain function. The Mayo Clinic recommends doing strength training exercises for all major muscle groups at least twice weekly.

5. Promotes Healthy Aging

Add it all up; an active life often leads to a longer and healthier life. In a 2004 study at Finland’s University of Kuopio, researchers followed 15,853 men aged 30 to 59 for over 20 years. Men who engaged in physically active leisure activities like jogging, skiing, swimming, playing ball, or doing serious gardening were up to 21% less likely to develop cardiovascular disease during the study period. Regular exercise can help to promote healthy aging in men. It helps maintain bone density, reduce the risk of osteoporosis, and help maintain balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Additionally, regular exercise can help reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline and improve the quality of life in later years.

In conclusion:

There are numerous reasons why men need to work out, from building muscle and strength to promoting healthy aging. By prioritizing regular physical activity, men can improve their overall health and well-being, reducing the risk of numerous chronic diseases and improving mental and cognitive function. If you’re a man, it’s imperative you don’t neglect your physical health. Make exercise a regular part of your routine and reap the benefits for years!