WHAT ACTUALLY, DOES EXERCISE DO TO YOUR BODY?

When we move, our muscles contract, triggering a cascade of physiological responses throughout the body.

1. Your heart pumps more blood.

Heart rate and cardiac output increase, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to working muscles.

2. Your muscles use more oxygen.

Your mitochondria—the cells' energy-producing structures—use oxygen to generate ATP, the energy that powers movement. Regular aerobic exercise increases your capacity to produce that energy.

3. Your blood vessels respond.

Increased blood flow stimulates nitric oxide signalling, helping arteries dilate and supporting healthier blood vessel function over time.

4. Your cells become better at managing energy.

Muscle contraction stimulates glucose uptake, even without requiring an increase in insulin. Repeated exercise improves insulin sensitivity and metabolic health.

5. Your brain and immune system respond.

Exercise influences signalling molecules, including myokines released by muscles, and can increase BDNF, a protein involved in brain plasticity. Over time, regular activity also helps regulate chronic inflammation.

6. Your muscles and bones rebuild and strengthen.

Resistance exercise stimulates muscle protein synthesis. Weight-bearing movement also signals bones to maintain or build strength, helping preserve mobility, balance and independence as we age.

MOVE... move often!