Three reasons why a weekly workout routine works

Get the most out of your workout by creating a balanced routine that will give you a physical and mental health boost:

1. Build up strength Strength training builds muscle and promotes healthy joints as you age. Building muscle power can help decrease arthritis pain and improve glucose control in people with type 2 diabetes. Now, there’s no need to pump iron all day long in the gym. Just three days of moderate to high intensity exercise per week can have dramatic effects on your overall health. The trick is to find something that works for you and is convenient. If you’re more comfortable working out in the comfort of your own home, try investing in home-gym equipment or just rent some. Try: Striide  – a company that allows you to rent equipment to work out from home and you’ll be able to swap out your gear regularly for R549 a month. 
2. Just get moving Research has shown that exercise improves brain function. This is because exercising increases the blood flow, along with more oxygen and nutrients, to your brain. People who are physically active tend to score higher on cognitive tests than those who live sedentary lifestyles. It’s also been proven that there is a link between physical fitness, brain function, and reduced stress at work. Next time you’re experiencing brain fog, try getting up and getting moving. Go for a quick walk or jog or just do some stretches. 
3. Sweeter dreams Regular exercise has a major impact on the amount of deep sleep you get. Deep sleep, or slow wave sleep, allows the brain and the body to rejuvenate with virtually no interruption. Going to bed after a stressful day and with a long to-do list waiting for you the next morning often makes it difficult to wind down, messing up our body’s internal clock. When you exercise regularly, you increase the energy you have in the day, which in turn helps you be more productive. You also improve your mental state by reducing stress, tiring your body as opposed to just your mind.