When we lack flexibility, our bodies compensate in ways that create poor posture, resulting in mechanical imbalances in the back, hip, and neck. These imbalances pull the entire body out of alignment.

Make time to stretch daily. A flexible body greatly reduces the chance of injury because tight muscles that restrict the natural range of motion in the joints are susceptible to pulls, tears, and stress injuries.

If you lose muscle due to inactivity, you lose the ability to use calories effectively and usually gain fat and weight, even when eating fewer calories. Aerobics and weight training are the answer.

Even into the ages of 80 and 90, resistance training (weights) can help prevent deterioration of muscles and bones and increase energy and strength. It’s never too late to establish the exercise habit.

Even into the ages of 80 and 90, resistance training (weights) can help prevent deterioration of muscles and bones and increase energy and strength. It’s never too late to establish the exercise habit.

Research shows that women who do not exercise tend to become obese, with increased levels of toxic forms of estrogen. After menopause, this condition is an established breast-cancer risk factor.

Harvard studies show that the risk of cancer was lower in athletic women. Regular, long-term, vigorous exercise established a lifestyle that lowered the risk of breast and reproductive cancers.

Osteoporosis is characterized by decreased bone density. It’s never too early or too late to build bone mass. After age 30, strength training is the best exercise for cutting the risk of reduced bone density.

Regular exercise is one important way to help reduce heart attack risk. It improves blood circulation throughout the body. The heart, lungs, muscles, and other organs work together more efficiently.

Vigorous exercise stimulates the production of a chemical in the body that’s known to lift the spirit—norepinephrine. Ten minutes of exercise doubles the body’s level of this mood-lifting neurotransmitter.