Do you set goals every month to start working out but are unable to accomplish them? You may cite your hectic schedule, personal life, or unstable environment as reasons for not working out. However, this unhealthy choice can have negative effects on your mental and physical well-being. We spoke to our expert Ishaan Arora, Karnal-based Body Building India Certified Fitness Trainer, who explained what happens to your body when you stop exercising.
Effects Of Physical Inactivity On Your Health
Muscle Loss and Decreased Strength
One of the most noticeable effects of stopping exercise is muscle loss and decreased strength. Arora said, “When you're inactive, your muscles begin to atrophy, losing mass and strength over time. This process occurs due to a decrease in muscle protein synthesis and an increase in protein breakdown. Without regular exercise to stimulate muscle growth and maintenance, muscles become weaker and less efficient.”
Reduced Cardiovascular Fitness
Did you know cardiovascular fitness, which is also known as aerobic fitness, decreases when you stop exercising? “Aerobic exercises, such as running, cycling, or swimming, help to strengthen the heart and lungs, which improves their efficiency in delivering oxygen to the body's tissues. When you become inactive, your heart rate slows down, and your body's ability to transport oxygen reduces”, added Arora. As a result, everyday activities may feel more challenging, and you may experience fatigue more quickly.
Also Read: Sedentary Life: Know Easy Lifestyle Modifications To Live Healthy
Weight Gain and Changes in Body Composition
It is not unknown that exercising can help in maintaining a healthy body weight, hence, when you stop doing it, you are more likely to gain weight. Not only this, physical activity helps regulate metabolism, burn calories, and maintain muscle mass, all of which contribute to weight management. Arora added, “When you stop exercising, your metabolic rate may decrease, making it easier to gain weight, particularly in the form of fat. Additionally, muscle loss can further slow down metabolism, exacerbating the tendency to gain weight and affecting body composition.”
Loss of Bone Density
“Regular exercise that involves bearing weight, such as walking, jogging or resistance training, is crucial for maintaining strong and healthy bones. When you stop exercising, particularly weight-bearing activities, your bone density may decrease over time”, highlighted Arora. This can lead to a higher risk of developing osteoporosis, a condition where the bones become fragile and brittle. Not only does the loss of bone density impact skeletal health, but it also increases the likelihood of fractures and injuries.
Also Read: Bone Health In Children: Impact Of Malnutrition And Vitamin D Deficiency
Increased Risk of Chronic Disease
According to HHS Public Access, the majority of chronic diseases are primarily caused by physical inactivity. Chronic disease is largely prevented or delayed by physical activity, suggesting that chronic disease need not always be a lifelong consequence.
Arora said, “Physical inactivity contributes to factors, such as obesity, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance, which are known risk factors for chronic diseases. Staying active is key to mitigating these risks and promoting long-term health.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you have any health issues to get the necessary treatment.]