Four Reasons to Exercise More

By Bounkheana Chhun, FY17 SWE RMS Secretary and Project Engineer with SCS Engineers in Denver.
 
Some people view exercise as a chore, but I generally look forward to my afternoon workouts after a long work day because I know they will make me feel happy and energized.  I really enjoy lifting weights, running, and hiking - this summer I’d like to get more into cycling.  Now that the weather is getting nicer, it’s also a great excuse to get outside!  
Here are four reasons to exercise more:

1. More energy - Getting some activity in gives me more energy.  A workout after work will help me to finish the day cooking dinner, cleaning up the house, or going out with friends.  
2. Stress reliever - Us engineers know the stress of working a demanding full time job, having a family, a social life, volunteering on the side, etc, etc,.  When people ask me why I exercise, I often explain that the combination of endorphins and a mental break from my day and obligations is usually sufficient for me to stay on top of my stress. Given that recent studies have shown that not only does stress make us unhappy, but it also has adverse health effects, this may be my top reason for exercise. 
3. Sleep better - I don’t have serious problems with sleeping, but I can fall asleep easier and sleep through the night or days that I do exercise versus days that I am lethargic all day. 
4. Confidence - Growing up, I was involved in a lot of sports, and when I graduated from high school I continued to be active.  I attribute a good deal of confidence to exercise.  Sometimes there’s a feeling of powerlessness to achieve goals in the school or workplace because of management, clients, acts of God, but with exercise you can have control over what is accomplished.   When I set goals for myself to achieve, and achieve them, I believe that I can achieve anything that comes my way in any aspect of my life.  

 
Hopefully reading through this list will motivate you to get out and have some fun exercising.