Why all the shouting over getting off your duff and doing regular physical activity? Here are some of the benefits:

Why all the shouting over getting off your duff and doing regular physical activity? Here are some of the benefits:

* Improves energy.

* Reduces feelings of stress, anxiety and depression.

* Improves sleep.

* Improves concentration.

* Enhances self-esteem.

* Helps you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

* Reduces the risk of heart disease, or improves cardiac function if you’ve had a heart attack or bypass.

* Increases good cholesterol and lowers triglycerides.

* Reduces the risk of colon cancer.

* Lowers high blood pressure and the risk of stroke.

* Controls blood sugar levels if you have, or are at risk for, diabetes.

* Improves bone density and lowers the risk of osteoporosis and fractures as you get older.

Sources: the American Heart Assn., the American College of Sports Medicine, Shape Up America!, the American Academy of Family Physicians and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Assn.