It is no surprise to hear that I love to exercise. I am also sure that each of you know several people, if not yourself, that love the emotional and physical benefits of a great workout. Within the exercise community, there is quite a distinct divide between those whom exercise out of sheer obligation yet do not enjoy themselves in the least and those of whom you would have to strap down to a chair to keep them from getting in their daily workout. So, what is the secret?

IMost people never begin an exercise program as an addict. In fact, exercise is a "habit" that it is nurtured by repeated and consistent behaviors. Good habits form just as bad habits, once they become part of your routine, they happen naturally and without much thought; kind of like brushing your teeth! What keeps people coming back for more? The obvious weight control benefit doesn't hurt of course. However, the difference between the two exercise subgroups lies more in the pleasurable effects from the chemical endorphins released in the brain during physical activity; especially aerobic exercise.

IAlthough there is need for more research regarding the actual process of the chemicals released with exercise, there is a good base of knowledge of the physiology in this area. When you engage in aerobic exercise such as cycle, swim, run, or carry out any other form of strenuous endurance activity, your pituitary gland releases substantial quantities of 'endorphins'. These chemicals can block sensations of pain and produce overall feelings of euphoria. Endorphins are known to attach to 'receptors' on the outer surfaces of brain cells. These receptors can be compared to keys which fit into locks in the cell's 'keyhole'. If enough endorphin is inserted into the 'keyhole' of a nerve cell, the cell is unlikely to convey pain signals to the conscious part of the brain. This euphoric feeling is not only reported during exercise can also make an athlete feel great after a vigorous workout. The latter effect is sometimes referred to as the 'runner's high', and the post-exercise surge in endorphins helps to explain why many exercisers seem to become addicted to their sport (I have heard of people like this. . . .wink! wink!).

IBut fear not, one must not need be a marathon runner to reap the benefits of exercise induced perkiness. Even if you only exercise for a short period of time, your mood will be improved. Just ten minutes of moderate exercise is enough to boost mood, increase vigor and decrease fatigue. However, to obtain all the benefits from exercise, not just the mood improving aspects, you should do at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day.

II know it sometimes is not easy to head out the door for that morning jog or swim, or go out for a bike ride after work. I certainly have days when I lace up my running shoes with a scowl on my face. But the difference is this: I still go because I ask myself this very question (and I would like for you to ask yourself as well) - Have you ever NOT exercised and wish you had? Have you ever exercised and afterward wished you HAD NOT?

INot very many people initially begin a regular exercise program and claim to "love" it from the beginning but it is after he or she "craves" that energy and mood boost that keeps 'em coming for more!

IMantra of the Issue: I don't HAVE to exercise, I GET to exercise!