Years ago, during a water break in the middle of a demanding aerobics class at the local YMCA, I overheard a conversation between two women that changed my life. Remembering it is still one of the primary ways I motivate myself to exercise when I don't feel like it (which is almost always).
One woman remarked about how she exercises strenuously so she doesn't have to take her anti-depressant. She said if she doesn't exercise hard on a regular basis she gets depressed and needs the medication, but when she regularly works out, she no longer needs the pills.
The other woman said she experiences the same thing, except with sleeping pills. Exercise: sleeps like a baby...no exercise: needs the pills.
Better mood and improved sleep are just two of the 12 rewards of exercise, according to WebMD, which are backed-up with scientific evidence. Here's the full list:
12 Rewards of Exercise
1. Better Mood
2. Improved Sleep
3. More Energy
4. Increased Self-Esteem
5. Increased Life Expectancy
6. Increased Productivity
7. Weight Management
8. Strong Heart
9. Strong Bones and Muscles
10. Reduced Stress
11. Reduced Cancer Risk
12. Less Arthritis Pain