- Reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases
- Increased cardiovascular endurance
- Increased muscle strength and endurance
- increased flexibility
- Reduced risk of some types of cancer (especially colon and breast)
- Improved mental outlook and lessened likelihood of depression
- Improved mental functioning
- Feeling of vigor
- Feeling of belonging - the companionship of sports
- Strong self-image and belief in one's abilities
- Reduced body fat, increased lean tissue
- A more youthful appearance, healthy skin, and improved muscle tone
- Greater bone density and lessened risk of adult bone loss in later life
- Increased independence in the elderly
- Sound, beneficial sleep
- Faster wound healing
- Lessening or elimination of menstrual pain
- Improved resistance to infection
(Nutrition Concepts and Controversies by Frances Sizer and Ellie Whitney; Pg 4)
