Exercise, benefits, and time

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. ( Read more... )