Exercise doesn't stop the clock on aging, but it seems to slow it down

Evidence continues to mount that exercise provides many benefits to help people look and feel younger. The March issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource offers a recap of the many benefits of regular exercise.

Provides energy: A lack of energy is largely a result of inactivity. Endurance exercises such as walking, swimming, jogging, biking and rowing improve stamina and energy. After just a few weeks in a walking program, most people find they have more energy for activities such as gardening or traveling.

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

Takes off pounds and keeps them off: Exercise burns calories. Burning more calories than consumed can reduce body fat. And exercise raises metabolism during the activity and after. In the long term, both factors help maintain weight loss.

Promotes firm bodies: A regular strength training program can help maintain muscle mass and tone and counteract the effects of gravity and aging.

Boosts immune system: Researchers have found a link between regular physical activities and improved immune functions. During moderate exercise, immune cells circulate more quickly through the body and are better at destroying viruses and bacteria.

Prevents disease: Regular aerobic exercise reduces the risk of heart disease by reducing body fat, lowering blood pressure and raising “good” cholesterol levels. A regular strength-training program increases muscle mass, preserves bone and improves strength and balance. Those benefits, in turn, make it easier to perform daily activities and help prevent falls and osteoporosis.

Improves mental function: A number of studies have found that women who are physically active score better on mental function tests than do sedentary women.

Increases overall life expectancy: A number of studies have found that women who participate in regular physical activity live longer than their more sedentary peers. Physical activity doesn't have to mean formal exercise. Engaging in purposeful physical activities, such as cleaning or walking a pet, has been shown to lengthen life.

Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource is published monthly to help women enjoy healthier, more productive lives. Revenue from subscriptions is used to support medical research at Mayo Clinic. To subscribe, please call 800-876-8633, extension 9PK1, or visit http://www.bookstore.mayoclinic.com