Working for years at a busy medical clinic has shown me just how invaluable it is to keep on top of our health – both physically and psychologically. And as I get older myself, I have realized two things – that there is no age that is more crucial to another in terms of the benefits of exercise and regular movement; and secondly, that we can’t waste our youth taking our health for granted, simply because we can do everything so easily (for instance, without pain, difficulty, or the use of medication). Unfortunately, there are no special privileges for people who try to cut corners or ignore their health altogether—time will always catch up with you in one way or another.

As we age it is undeniable that we need to build and sustain momentum, when the likelihood of more observable body and mind changes starts taking place. Around the age of 40, several physical and cognitive changes may become more apparent—especially if you have a have a history of little to no exercise. So, this article is for individuals in their 20s and 30s who may not quite realise what is in store for them if they are not in control of their health by the age of 40. The tragedy is that I have seen my fair share of men and women with chronic illness, and some of those illnesses, are completely (and unfortunately) lifestyle related.

Common markers of increasing age are:

Higher blood pressure and blood sugars, decreased metabolism, and faster propensity for weight gain resulting in chronic illnesses such as obesity and diabetes

Loss of bone density or muscle weakness leading to mobility and pain issues in the back, neck and joints

Sleep difficulties, concentration and memory problems, and lack of energy

For women, hormonal dysregulation through irregular periods and the onset of menopause

Visible (often distressing) appearances of age—sagging dull skin and lines and wrinkles on the face, neck and hands due to the loss of skin elasticity and collagen breakdown; thinning hair or balding; loss of muscle tone and definition on arms and legs; slumped posture; skin discolouration and age spots.

Life is quite different as you get older also. Individuals may have significant responsibilities regarding children (young or perhaps leaving home), elderly parents, and extended families; they may have taxing or competitive jobs or high expectations on them as a spouse or parent; and they may have started to experience stressful events such as divorce, greater financial issues, sickness, or the death of loved ones or friends through illness or age.

Unfortunately, any physical, cognitive, or life related problems can cause the onset of, or exacerbate, the psychological ones. As a result of the above, you could experience:

High levels of stress, worry and rumination; depression; anxiety (including increased perfectionist and obsessive tendencies); anger; an increase in addictive or problematic behaviours; and problems with body image, intimacy, self-esteem, and self-confidence.

Therefore, simply exercising in any way, shape or form—because of its positive effects on the mind, body, and immune system—has never been more important if you desire, or want to maintain, the following:

To be more objective and at peace and to be able to take an optimistic stance in life; to be able to cope with stress more easily; to have energy, endurance, and to be able to get things done faster (eg- not wasting valuable time being sick, sore, lethargic or depressed); enhanced concentration, motivation, focus, creativity, problem solving and clarity; less worry and sadness; the ability to breathe, move, sleep easily and simply do more; the ease to make more healthy lifestyle choices; the joy of looking good; a better social and personal life; the confidence to be around anyone and be proud of who you are and what you look like; and the ability to set bigger and better personal goals.

Naturally, if you continue to ignore movement and exercise as a priority in your life, then you will have more rapid aging and related adverse effects, and less probability of reversing the consequences or healing faster—whether they be physical or psychological. You may also need to start saving money, because hospitals and insurance policies with pre-existing conditions are far more expensive than gym memberships!

The benefits of exercising—even starting to exercise— clearly outweigh the negatives.

In following articles, I will address why some people find it difficult to start on the road of helping themselves—why they continually sabotage themselves—and the real difficulties and challenges that those with chronic illness (and their loved ones) face on a day-to-day basis.