Reasons to Work Out Besides Weight Loss or Muscle Gain

Posted on 7 January 2020
By Marie Miguel
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Now we’re fully into 2020, you’re probably wanting to lose a little weight, or gain some muscle in the process. Being more fit for 2020 isn’t a bad decision, but many people go into it with the wrong mindset. They want instant results, and once they don’t lose weight quickly, it’s discouraging and makes them quit working out.

Instead of going into 2020 with this mindset, work out for other reasons besides improving your appearance. Here are some reasons you should work out.

You Can Sleep Better

Many people aren’t getting enough rest, and that’s not a good thing. An occasional bad night’s sleep is one thing, but if you’re going nights tossing and turning, you may need to improve your lifestyle. There are many changes you can make to improve your sleep hygiene. Obviously, you shouldn’t drink coffee close to your bedtime, and using your phone too much can keep you up.

Another way to help you rest better is by working out. Don’t work out too close to bed, and instead work out during the late afternoon, or whatever time is appropriate. You may be able to get a good night’s rest.

Your Mental Health Improves As Well

Many people work out, take vitamins, and try to keep fit for their body, but your mind is more important. With time, preserving your mental health is most important. Working out releases endorphins, which may improve your depression, anxiety, stress, and give you an overall better sense of mental well-being.

With that said, working out is just a tool in the fight for strong mental health. If you have severe depression or anxiety, it’s important to speak to a therapist about it. Look for “therapists near me” and get started.

You Have More Energy

Working out has the opposite effect that you may expect. You may think that working out means you’ll have less energy because you’re using it to work out. However, you may end up having more. As the adrenaline pumps, you become more energetic. Not only that, but you may get a better night’s rest with working out, giving you even more energy.

It’s Great for Anger

We mentioned that working out makes you feel happier, but if you’re feeling angry, disappointed, or have another strong, negative emotion, working out is wonderful for that. If something has made you mad, sprinting on a treadmill, lifting a heavy weight, or unloading on a punching bag can help release some tension. Turning your negative energy into something positive just feels good, too.

A Better Immune System

If you’re finding yourself getting sick a lot, your immune system may need a boost. Besides taking the proper vitamins and avoiding sick people, working out may help with that immune system. It can build your immunity, reducing your chances of getting sick. Even a bit of moderate exercise when you’re sick may help you. With that said, know your limits and don’t go to the gym while you’re contagious.

You Feel More Confident

Your appearance doesn’t have to change for the gym to give you more confidence. Learning to lift heavier weights, sprinting for longer, and accomplishing your gym goals just gives you that confidence boost you deserve. Confidence can land you jobs, dates, and help you achieve the various other goals life has to offer. Don’t be afraid to be a little more confident in yourself whenever you’re at the gym.
Social Interaction

Having social interaction is great for your mental health, and going to a gym can provide. Of course, many people work out without speaking to anyone, but if you need to make a friend, you can always join a fitness class or talk to some people for guidance when doing squats or other activities.

The gym is a great place for social interaction, and those who have a membership can meet new friends.
Working out is great, no matter your body type or age. You can work out at home, in the gym, or anywhere else you want. So in 2020, make a resolution to work out, and not just because you want to lose some fat or gain some muscle.

About the author

Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.

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