Exercise may not halt the aging process, but mounting evidence suggests people who stay active can slow its effects. The latest issue of Mayo Clinic Women's Healthsource offers 8 benefits to regular exercise.

It Provides Energy: Feeling tired and lethargic is largely a result of being inactive. Endurance exercises like walking, swimming, jogging, biking, and rowing improves stamina and energy. Even after a few weeks in a walking program, people have more energy for activities.

It Improves Mental Health: There's considerable evidence that regular physical activity can help reduce stress, manage mild-to-moderate depression and anxiety, improve sleep quality, boost mood, and enhance the overall feeling of well-being.

Shed Those Pounds and Keep Them Off: Burning more calories than consumed can reduce body fat. Exercise also raises metabolism during the activity and after. Both factors help to maintain weight loss.

It Boosts Immune System: A link has already been found between regular physical activities and improved immune functions. During moderate exercise, immune cells circulate more quickly through the body and are better at destroying viral and bacterial infections.

It Prevents Disease: Regular aerobic exercise reduces the risk of heart disease by reducing body fat, lowering blood pressure, and raising good cholesterol levels. Regular strength training improves muscle mass, preserves bone, and strengthens posture. Daily activities become easier to perform and help prevent falls and osteoporosis.

It Improves Cognitive Function: Studies have found people who are physically active score better on mental function tests compared to sedentary individuals.

It Improves Life Expectancy: Numerous studies have found that people who partake in regular exercise, live longer than their inactive peers. Engaging in purposeful physical activities, like cleaning or walking a pet, has been shown to contribute to longevity.

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