Did you know the number one health risk has shifted worldwide from starvation to obesity?
In 1950, the number of starving individuals on Earth was estimated to be around 700 million. At the time, obesity affected approximately 100 million people around the globe, primarily in rich countries.
These statistics have changed dramatically over the past six decades. The rate of “extreme obesity” (people with a BMI above 40) rose by 350 percent over the past few years alone in the US.
The sad fact is more people collectively across the world are now suffering from being fat than from not having enough food to eat. One estimate puts the number of obese at 1 billion compared to 800 million people who are underfed.
In the United States, obesity has become a huge problem. According to research published in 2013 by the University of Colorado at Boulder, one in five American deaths is now associated with obesity.
The western diet consists of many unhealthy and processed foods that lack nutrients and this seems to have a major influence on energy levels and motivation.
Getting in great shape is one of the most enjoyable and rewarding things you can do for yourself. If you are in good shape you will enjoy yourself more and it will have a positive influence on the rest of your life.
I am a firm believer that being in good shape has such a positive impact on your whole life. Let’s take a look at the five reasons you should get in shape now.
Five Reasons you Should Get in Shape Now
1. It Will Make You Happy
You probably don’t need any other reason but this one. Exercising helps to release endorphines in your brain, which release the “feel good” emotion. Working out will help you become a happier person. Researchers at the Penn State Social Science Research Institute recently concluded that “people who are more physically active have more pleasant-activated feelings than people who are less active.”
Not to mention that if you are in shape and you feel like you look good physically, this has major impacts on happiness. A review of 15 clinical studies found a clear link between obesity and depression. Yet another great reason you should get in shape.
2. It Will Prevent Serious Health Problems
Let’s be honest here – who wants to actually be obese? I would guess very few people. Obesity is the result of a lifestyle, not a decision. People suffer from obesity all around the world, and there is a long list of health problems associated with obesity, such as hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, and stroke. If you are an obese person, you are much more likely to suffer from one of these serious illnesses.
3. It Will Increase Your Confidence
When you look your best, you will feel your best and act your best! Getting in great shape is certain to boost your confidence, which will have a positive catalyst in all areas of your life. You will be much more confident in the dating scene as well when you are in great shape and exercising regularly. Many overweight people lack serious confidence due to their physical appearance. People who take pride in their body’s and their appearance will likely take pride in all facets of life.
4. It Will Increase Your Energy Levels
Exercising to increase your energy levels is a funny concept. Most people think that after you exercise you are going to be tired and exhausted all day but the opposite actually happens. People who exercise regularly have much higher energy levels. If you are looking for a great all day energy boost, try exercising in the morning before you go to work.
5. Exercise is Fun and Enjoyable
Exercise can be a really fun and enjoyable experience. People who don’t exercise have a bad perception that working out and being in shape is a giant chore. This is not true at all! Nobody said that getting in shape had to be boring. You can choose a multitude of activities to help you get in shape such as playing your favorite sport, lifting weights, running, jumping rope, sprinting, plyometrics, and even dancing! There are so many fun and exciting activities that can help you get in shape. Pick a few of your favorite ones and you are on your way.
