Exercise has all sorts of outer benefits beyond the trim waist and toned muscles that most of us associate with gym-goers. Did you know it’s also great for your breasts, your posture and your skin?But a fit body wouldn’t be beautiful without all the inner beauty benefits that exercise gives you, too. So celebrate your weight loss accomplishments (you’ve earned it!), but don’t spend too much time in front of the mirror. Focus on how you feel, instead. When you treat your body right, you’ll see amazing results on the outside:
Youthful body: Studies prove that regular exercise can make your body look and feel a whopping nine years younger—looks like you can turn back the clock!
Good posture: So long, slouchy shoulders! Regular strength training buffs up your bones and lowers your risk of osteoporosis. It also helps to keep your joints arthritis-free.
Clear skin: Aerobic exercise, the kind that really gets your blood going, improves your circulation. Happy arteries mean clear, nourished skin. Sweating also helps flush out the toxins that lead to breakouts.
Healthy breasts: Whether you’re a 32A or Joan Holloway’s twin sister, healthy breasts are important. Staying active lowers your risk of breast cancer by more than 33 percent, and protects against other cancers, too.
RELATED RESEARCH: Exercise Lowers Breast Cancer Risk
Trim waistline: Did you know that one pound of muscle burns 50 to 150 calories per day, while one pound of fat burns only three calories per day? By building muscle mass, you’ll raise your metabolism and burn calories even when you’re not moving! Exercise also helps reduce belly fat (so long, muffin top).
