We all know that Exercise is great for shedding those extra pounds, but what about all the other amazing benefits? Exercise can improve your mood, your skin, and even your sex life. We take a look.

1. It'll take you to places you never would have gone otherwise

Have you ever signed up for a Race just because it's in an interesting place? This is a very common occurrence, as travelling somewhere for a race gives it more purpose and you may well have a chance to see it in a way regular tourists wouldn't. For example, there are races in the UK that follow disused railway tracks that are closed to the public, as well as races that take place on private property like farms and manor houses.

Not to mention, if your preferred form of exercise is hiking, trekking, or trail running, you will be able to see stunning locations away from roads and towns that can only be accessed via the trails. The view is always worth it!

2. Meet like-minded people and make new friends

It can be hard to make new friends and forge new relationships as an adult. Apart from work colleagues and family, there are not many opportunities to make meaningful new relationships. Going to a gym or joining a running club can be the perfect way to find like-minded people who all have the same goal and experiences. You may even find people going through the same struggles as you who can act as a support system.

This will motivate you to continue exercising and soon it will be one of your favourite social activities. There are many people who frequent gyms just to chat and see friendly faces. Sports like CrossFit especially are exceptionally community-oriented and are all about supporting each other and cheering each other on. 

3. Ability to do daily tasks more easily

If you've never exercised, chances are you may get a sore back from bending down to load the dishwasher or sore arms from carrying the shopping. By building up both your muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance, you will find that daily life is much easier to navigate.

Functional fitness is a type of training specifically designed to improve your body's natural functionality and the movements mimic everyday activities. However, simply by lifting weights and doing regular cardio, you will find that chores and keeping up with your kids are infinitely easier. You'll no longer get out of breath walking up the stairs or running for your train, and the vacuum cleaner won't feel as heavy!

4. You will live longer

Many of us are guilty of living in the moment so much that we don't think ahead to the future. If you have children and grandchildren, you want to be around as long as possible to watch them grow and enjoy a happy, healthy life with them. However, if you do not live a healthy lifestyle, your time with them will be greatly reduced.

Not only this, exercising regularly will improve your quality of life and can keep your immune system healthy and strong.By doing strength work, you will increase your bone density and therefore reduce the risk of bone fractures in old age. You will also be far more mobile as you age and will be able to enjoy your life much more.