Regular exercise makes the heart stronger and the lungs fitter
enabling the cardiovascular system to deliver more oxygen to the body with every heartbeat and the pulmonary system to increase the maximum amount of oxygen that the lungs can take in
Exercise lowers blood pressure, somewhat decreases the levels of total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (the bad cholesterol), and increases the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (the good cholesterol).
These beneficial effects in turn decrease the risk of heart attack, stroke, and coronary artery disease. In addition, colon cancer and some forms of diabetes are less likely to occur in people who exercise regularly.
Exercise makes muscles stronger allowing people to do tasks that they otherwise might not be able to do or to do them more easily.
Every physical task requires muscle strength and some degree of range of motion in joints. Regular exercise can improve both of these qualities.
Exercise stretches muscles and joints which in turn can increase flexibility and help prevent injuries.
Exercise may also improve balance by increasing strength of the tissues around joints and throughout the body, thus helping to prevent falls.
Weight-bearing exercise, such as brisk walking and weight training, strengthens bones and helps prevent osteoporosis.
Exercise often can improve function and reduce pain in people with osteoarthritis, although regimens must be developed specifically for each person, and exercises that put undue strain on joints, such as jumping and running, may need to be avoided.