10 in 10 Challenge - Week 4 Tip

Why Should We Exercise?
By Lori Thomas
Crawfordsville Curves

Women are by nature helpers, caregivers and nurturers. We are programmed by our creator to react to the world this way and these are good qualities to have. We sometimes are so busy thinking of others that we forget that we are to be caregivers and nurtures to ourselves as well. It is ok to take some time to focus on what we need too. We juggle jobs, families, homes and many other responsibilities and simply run out of time for ourselves.

It is vital to our health to set aside even just thirty minutes a day three times a week to exercise. Are we not worth that little time? Studies have shown that regular exercise significantly increases life expectancy and improves overall health. Regular physical activity can help protect us from heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, back pain and osteoporosis. It can reduce or improve symptoms of menopause, PMS, type 2 diabetes as well as other conditions. Improved flexibility and strength are gained as well. Exercise stimulates various brain chemicals, which may leave us feeling happier and more relaxed than we were before we worked out. This improves our overall mood and helps us better manage stress.

Child obesity is rising at an alarming rate. It is imperative that we become good role models for our children and that we teach them to take better care of themselves. They must learn the importance of living a healthy lifestyle.

We are fortunate in our community to have several options to become more active. There are bowling leagues, volleyball, and softball leagues to join. We have three fitness centers in town: Park & Rec., Curves, and The Athena Center, all of which offer a wide variety of ways to get and stay fit.

Ladies, it’s time to put ourselves back on the priority list and put our workouts on the calendar just like any other commitment. We can’t take care of others if we don’t take care of ourselves. It’s as simple as that!



Lori Thomas has been the owner of Curves, a women’s fitness center for the past 3 years. She is also a member of the Montgomery County Wellness Council to help bring awareness of exercise, nutrition and healthy lifestyles to the citizens of Montgomery County.