Many people choose to exercise regularly to lose weight. But weight loss isn’t the only positive effect exercise has on the body.
In fact, there are many signs that you’ve gotten fitter even if you haven’t lost any weight.
You sleep deeper and your mood is better
A healthy routine can have many positive effects on well-being.
These include a better mood, improved digestion and more restful sleep. So it’s not just about losing weight, but also about improving overall well-being.
Eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise brings mental health benefits. If you notice your mood improving and your stress levels decreasing, it’s a clear sign that the healthy routine is working.
Improved sleep is also a sign that the body is benefiting from healthy habits.
Digestion works better
A healthy lifestyle can also lead to improved digestion and a healthier gut.
Nutrient-rich foods such as vegetables, nuts, whole grains, seeds and fruits can aid digestion. Fiber is particularly important for a good digestive system.
You last longer during training
If you notice that you’re finding it easier to exercise, that’s a clear sign that you’re making progress. For example, over time you can lift more weights or do more repetitions.
Better performance is an indicator that you are providing the right challenge to the body and making it stronger. Not only does training play a big role, but nutrition is also important. The foods you eat affect muscle performance and recovery.
You build more muscle
A common misconception is that weight loss is the ultimate goal when it comes to fitness.
In fact, you may be able to build muscle and burn fat at the same time without seeing much change on the scale – what’s called “body recomposition.”
It’s even possible that the weight on the scale will increase as you get stronger. However, that is nothing to worry about.
Muscle weighs more than fat. Therefore, even if you don’t lose weight, you may still get fitter. In the long term, increased muscle mass will bring you closer to your goal because muscle burns more energy than fat, even at rest.
Healthy routines are always worth it
A balanced diet and regular physical activity can reduce the risk of disease. Cholesterol levels, blood pressure and metabolism can also improve through a healthy lifestyle.
So weight loss isn’t the only reason to eat healthily and exercise regularly.
Even if your weight doesn’t change drastically at first, you will get fitter and make progress through a healthy lifestyle. In the long term, a healthy lifestyle also leads to a healthy weight that you can maintain without a yo-yo effect.