We were created for action. The proverb, "Use it or lose it" applies to every part of the body. Exercise provides greater vitality, extra energy, and longer life. Yet, for many, the greatest exertion of the day is getting out of bed, or walking from the kitchen to the garage. As a result of our more sedentary habits, we must deliberately incorporate physical activity into our lives. We live in a push-button society. It wasn't too many years ago that mankind walked a great deal more, chopped wood, tended gardens for food, and worked physically for his living. In past ages, man may have overworked his body, but exercise was not a major concern. Today, exercise is one of the most discussed subjects, but is the least practiced in America.
When we do not exercise, or get too little of it, the whole body suffers as a result. Inaction of any of the organs of the body will result in a decrease in organ size, less muscle strength, and sluggish circulation of the blood.
Exercise is very important for every human body. A lack of exercise greatly impairs and reduces bodily functions.
A long-standing inactive body becomes sluggish. Only 37% of the American population regularly engage in some form of exercise, and over 72% are overweight. For exercise to be effective, it must be progressive, systematic, and habitual. Walking is an excellent form of exercise and can easily be worked into one's schedule. Regular exercise provides us with stronger hearts and lungs, increases metabolism, better digestion, sound sleep, the elimination of a multitude of physical ailments, and the needed energy to handle stress in a calmer manner.
by Katy Chamberlin