Physical exercise
“ Workout ” and “ Exercise ” redirect here . For other uses , see Workout ( disambiguation ) and Exercise ( disambiguation ). Physical exercise is any bodily activity that enhances or maintains physical fitness and overall health and wellness . It is performed for various reasons , including increasing growth and development , preventing aging , strengthening muscles and the cardiovascular system , honing athletic skills , weight loss or maintenance , and also enjoyment . Frequent and regular physical exercise boosts the immune system [ citation needed ] and helps prevent certain “ diseases of affluence ” such as coronary heart disease , type 2 diabetes , and obesity [ citation needed ]. It may also help prevent stress [ citation needed ] and depression , increase quality of sleep and act as a non-pharmaceutical sleep aid to treat diseases such as insomnia , help promote or maintain positive self-esteem , improve mental health , maintain steady digestion and treat constipation and gas , regulate fertility health , and augment an individual ’ s sex appeal or body image . Childhood obesity is a growing global concern , and physical exercise may help decrease some of the effects of childhood and adult obesity .[ citation needed ] Some care-providers [ which ?] call exercise the “ miracle ” or “ wonder ” drug — alluding to the wide variety of benefits that it can provide for many individuals . Aside from the health advantages , these benefits may include different social rewards for staying active while enjoying the environment of one ’ s culture . Many [ quantify ] individuals choose to exercise publicly outdoors where they can congregate in groups , socialize , and appreciate life .
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