5 Reasons Why and How Exercise Helps Me Live Better

I’m on a mission to get back into shape – a shape that doesn’t scream “couch potato.” So this article is to explain why and how I plan to do that. Again.

PART 1 – Why I Exercise:

You read that right, again! Yours truly embarked on a fitness journey back in mid-2022, created a workout plan that impressed my two sons, then managed to release eight kilos in three months (mostly water-weight, yet a lot from excessive fried and baked products!), changed my eating habits (fruit smoothie breakfasts, yoghurt lunches, plus home cooked vegetables with rare-medium cooked meat!) and started to become a new man. I actually went down one size in my denim jeans. It was fantastic.

Whilst the eating continues (which is helped by growing our own vegetables), the exercise stopped happening every day. Thankfully I can simply restarted the journey where I left off!

Why on earth would I do all this? Let me explain with 7 great reasons:

Energy Levels and Mood Boosting: Exercise doesn’t just make me sweat; it also boosts my energy levels. It’s like a shot of espresso without the jitters. Ironically, I have quit have quad-shots, I now drink decaf in the mornings. So much better!
Weight Management: I recently realized it was time manage my weight a lot better, so my regular exercise routine needed to be reinvigorated .
Mental Health, Brain and Memory Improvement: I’ve got dreams to chase and memories to make. Recently I discovered that exercise releases a magical combo of testosterone and serotonin, the superheroes of mood improvement, I’m on a quest to not just improve my guns and pecs but also shoot down those mental health demons. Exercise, you’re my secret weapon to keep my brain in top-notch shape.
Muscle Tone and Bone Strength: Strong muscles and bones are the unsung heroes of looking good and feeling great. I have to battle low bone density for the rest of my life, so to make sure I don’t bust too many bones (my doctors will say it’s too late), I regularly walk to keep my knees, ankles and feet exercised sufficiently.
Relaxation and Sleep Quality: After a day of adulting, who doesn’t want to relax and sleep like a baby? Exercise, you’re my ticket to a good night’s sleep.

Now, before you think I’ve turned into a fitness guru overnight, let me assure you – I’m just a regular person trying to find their way back to better body and mind health.

PART 2 – How I Exercise:

As most guys who cannot get enough exercise know and realise, I understand the importance of a swift routine that delivers maximum impact.

As my days are devoted to making windows shine, I realise it’s crucial to have shoulders, elbows, arms, and wrists ready for the long haul. Yet that’s just the beginning: Evenings demand leg power for housework, weekends require strength in my legs, knees, and ankles for gardening, and let’s not overlook the boundless energy needed to keep up with my sons whenever there’s a free moment!

So I’ve scoured the pages of the books I’ve purchased and perused to find easy exercise gems I can do in the privacy of my own home.

Yes, I bought this book I’m recommending before I even finished reading it – talk about confidence!

This exercise lineup features straightforward floor and aerobic exercises that promise to wring out the stress, leaving you feeling rejuvenated.

Jumping Jacks (Aerobic Marvel):

Sets: 3 \ Reps: 50
Boost your heart rate, feel the burn, and channel your inner kid. Jumping jacks are the ultimate aerobic exercise, giving you an energy kick and a mood lift.

Burpees (Full-Body Fiesta):

Sets: 4 \ Reps: 15
Love ’em or hate ’em, burpees are a powerhouse for weight management and muscle tone. They work your entire body, torch calories, and sculpt those muscles into shape.

Mountain Climbers (Core Crusher):

Sets: 3 \ Reps: 30 (15 each leg)
Get ready to engage that core! Mountain climbers not only help with weight management but also contribute to building a strong and toned midsection. It’s like a mini cardio party for your abs.

Bodyweight Squats (Leg Day Bliss):

Sets: 3 \ Reps: 20
Say hello to strong and sculpted legs. Bodyweight squats are your ticket to toned thighs and a firm derrière. Plus, they play a vital role in bone strength.

Yoga Sun Salutations (Mind-Body Harmony):

Sets: 2 \ Reps: 10 (per set)
Combining strength, flexibility, and a touch of meditation, sun salutations are the perfect blend for mental health, improved sleep quality, and overall well-being. It’s like a hug for your body and mind.

Bonus Moves – Affordable Equipment Edition:

For those ready to invest in equipment without draining the wallet (I’m currently considering a rowing machine), I’ve tossed in a couple of bonus moves.

Cheap Rowing Machine Ride:

Sets: 3 \ Reps: 500 meters
Invest in one of the many budget-friendly rowing machines for a killer cardio workout that targets multiple muscle groups. Rowing is not only great for weight management but also an excellent mood booster.

Budget Bodyweight Pulldowns/Pushups:

Sets: 3 \ Reps: 15 (each)
If you can’t resist a bit of equipment, grab a resistance band for pulldowns or pushups. Strengthen your upper body, improve posture, and give your mental health a solid boost.

And that’s the plan, my gateway to a version of myself that’s fitter, happier, and healthier – and who knows, maybe it could be yours too!

Let’s keep in mind, perfection is a mythical creature, especially in my world. This journey isn’t about achieving flawlessness; it’s primarily about enhancing my well-being, feeling more content in my own skin, and making life’s adventure a bit smoother. Oh, and don’t forget to grab a yoga mat to cushion the journey.

I managed to lose a few kilograms this off last year in just three months; Round two, here I come! But this time I will pursue, continue and make it through!