Exercise, benefits, and time

[redbird]

A couple of days ago, nellorat mentioned some research saying that yes, exercise tends to increase life expectancy, and the amount of increase is about equal to the amount of time spent exercising. My thought was "cool, the gym time is basically free," but I realized that this only works because I enjoy most of what I'm doing there. If not, it could very easily be read as no net benefit.

I realize that life expectancy isn't the only variable. It's not my main exercise goal: I'm mostly working on strength, endurance, balance, a feeling of being in control, and a side order of endorphins. And even if the time spent exercising was "free" in that sense, the extra commuting time and such aren't. But it's still a pleasing thought. As far as I know, other things I enjoy, such as reading, don't come with that bonus in life expectancy.

I went to the gym yesterday after work. Exercising is fun, but the details are often boring, so cut as usual.
Cardio, 10:00, top heart rate 120
Squat leaning on ball, 2 sets of 15
Calf raise with ball, 15
Chest press, 50 pounds, 12; 45 pounds, 7
Hip adduction, 90 pounds, 2 sets of 13

Biceps curls sitting on ball, 10 pounds each hand, 20, 12
Crunches lying on ball with feet against wall, 9, 5
A bit of balance work, standing one-footed on a squishy piece of foam
Rowing (on ball), 35 pounds, 15, 15, 9
Stretches

Comments

[jesse_the_k]

Hmm, an interesting calculus. Those endorphins certainly get good press, but I must admit I never feel a thrill from exercising. I do have less pain. Negative reinforcement.

[redbird]

I'm not sure it's actually endorphins, but exercise does help my mood, not just (or necessarily) in the moment, but in the hours to days afterwards.

[aquaeri]

I suspect different people get endorphin releases from different stimuli - for example, most fairground rides don't work for me, so I figure it makes sense if exercise doesn't work for others.