Many people equate exercise to weight control, body building sports and athletics.

Actually, the internal benefits of exercise are equally, if not more important to vitality, as are the cosmetic benefits. The vascular, lymphatic, circulatory, digestive, immune, and respiratory systems are profoundly dependent upon physical activity for functioning. We also benefit immensely on an emotional level as exercise helps to reduce stress, anxiety, lethargy, and depression.

Any exercise program should contain three kinds of activities to help improve overall health and wellness; aerobic training, resistance training, and flexibility training. (Visit the Licious network for a listing of your local fitness professionals.)

• Blood carries nutrients extracted from the foods you eat to every cell in your body, and in this way, exercise helps feed our cells
• Blood also carries residues left over after the food/fuel has been burned. Exercise increases blood flow, allowing the blood to aid in the elimination process
• Blood travels through the veins and arteries and can help prevent the build-up of cholesterol on the walls. When arteries and veins are obstruction free, blood pressure is normal and the heart can pump blood around the body more effectively

Including exercise with any healthy eating plan will greatly improve your chances of becoming more fit and toning up. At the end of the day we must remind ourselves that our bodies have been created to move. Much like eating, motion is a necessity. Once this becomes a reality, your philosophy towards your own health may change so you can begin to take a more "active" role in your health. Be healthy, be fit.

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