4 More benefits of exercise 1 Exercise increases maximal oxygen consumption as well as cardio-vascular function and blood supply to the muscles. It also enhances muscle, tendon and ligament strengths. Muscles aid in rehabilitation or recovery of health. One of the best ways to heal many types of injuries is to strengthen muscles surrounding the injured area. 2 Workouts reduce the risk of developing colon cancer, breast cancer, diabetes, arthritis and higher cholesterol. It also removes fat, maintaining the right body weight. 3 Fitness improves psychological well-being, enhances work, recreation, metabolic rate and sport performances. Studies have proved that consistent strength training can increase bone density and prevent osteoporosis and back pain. 4 Regular exercise helps aging muscles retain their flexibility and protects them from injury. Long-term endurance training protects muscle from injury.

People with muscular bodies can cope with a bit more stress than others. According to a study conducted by the researchers at the Medical College of Georgia (MCG), US, muscular people have the greater ability to regulate their blood pressure in response to a tense session.

The researchers traced a direct link between what is known as the lean body mass (fatless portion) and higher blood pressure in adults and children during stress. They looked at the percentages of fat and lean tissue on their subjects and tested their ability to excrete sodium through natriuresis ? the primary mechanism for dropping blood pressure back to normal, important to combat stress. Dr Gregory Harshfield, hypertension researcher an author of the study published in the American Journal of Hypertension, says, ?Those with more fat had a decreased ability to excrete sodium.?

Athletes? blood pressure come back down relatively quickly after swimming or running. Researchers found that while blood pressure increased an average of five per cent in response to the stress of a video game, 127 young participants who had more lean muscle mass than fat were better able to return to normal levels.

In contrast, greater body fat was associated with a slower natriuretic response to stress. ?The major finding of this study is that body composition is related to the pressure natriuresis response to mental stress,? says Martha Wilson, lead author of the study.