What do YOU get from exercising?

[April]

I'm planning on starting a regular regimen of exercising tomorrow morning. In the past it was all about losing weight, but that's not my goal this time, or at least if it is, I'm in denial. I know I'd like to get into better shape, but I'm mostly happy with my body the way it is (looks) now, and I seriously don't want to beat myself up for it not being a perfect size X. Anyway, I'm hoping that exercise will help me to burn off some of the stress that I accumulate throughout the day. I'm also hoping it will give me more energy to get through my average day, and will help regulate my sleep cycle.

What benefits do you reap from exercise?

[revelsunrise]

Hmmm...maybe you'll inspire me to start exercising more! I could stand to burn off my extra energy.

Oh...and I already think you're perfect. You are absolutely gorgeous girl. And your avatar doesn't do you justice.

[blinkered]

Mainly good health, but also pleasure .... I wouldn't enjoy the competitive sports anywhere near as much (or compete at as high a level) if I was unfit. It also gives me a much greater sense of well being, I am much happier with the way my body looks (would still like that flat stomach though) and the exercise helps to maintain that. But the main thing is the enjoyment e.g. being able to spontaneously go out for a bike ride with a chain gang, keep up with them and enjoy it.

[CountessKerouac]

I feel good and fit after a nice work out...plus stronger!

[clickman]

I feel like I have more energy and can do more afterwards.

[FafaFrappy]

Nothing beats the feeling of a post workout shower! I always feel sooooo good afterwards!

[MsRuthieB]

I feel really good. More confidence, less depression, less joint pain. I feel more awake, alive. It feels good to breath the air while I walk to work after my workout. I'm proud that I'm doing something good for my body and spirit. It's the first thing I do everyday..treat myself good! :yeah me:

ETA: April..I work out at FitWorks in the Colonial Arcade off of Euclid in the morning. I can get you a free two week pass if you want to try it out. I'm usually working out from 6:30 to 7:30 and at work by like 8:30. It's a really good gym. Clean lockerrooms and great equiptment. Just let me know..

[zoebird]

i just love the way my body feels when it moves. it's kinda tantric i guess. so, all forms of exercise are like this for me.

also, i dsilike competition, but i love the journey and exploration of my physical manifestation through movement. I love to set goals and reach them in my given training. it's just more fun that way.

[Christy]

I despise exercise, but I do enjoy the physical benefits such as visible results (toning, loss of fat), as well as the increased energy, better sleep, etc. I enjoy feeling fit and that I can do almost anything, but I really hate it. I mainly do it for the toning and fat loss. I did enjoy yoga. I should get back to that.

[Gashlycrumb]

Exercise makes me feel like one tough bitch (most definately after my martial arts class). I love to be pushed. To challenge myself. I'm all about being a strong woman. Just call me Sydney Bristow.

Exercise puts me in a positive frame of mind and gives me a tight body (seemingly a miracle since I'm almost 32 now). I work in front of a computer 8 hrs/day, 5 days/wk, doing mental work, so it's a pleasure to push my body physically. Not to mention it seems to make most stress just fall away.

Did I say it makes me feel like one tough bitch?