8 Signs You're Out Of Shape And Need To Exercise More

Weighing scales and BMI (body mass index) don't always tell the full story of your physical health. You can have a perfectly healthy weight, look fantastic, and still be out of shape.

Keep reading to check out the eight signs that you're physically unfit and should start exercising more! 

#1 You get out of breath easily

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If you're gasping for air when doing simple activities like walking up a flight of stairs, you're probably out of shape. Regular cardio exercise like jogging may boost your metabolism and improve your cardiovascular system.

#2 You have bad posture

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Mum: How many times must I tell you to stand up straight?
You: But I AM standing up straight!

If this rings some bells, you probably need to exercise more! Having poor posture even if you're trying your best to correct it may be a sign that you're physically unfit. It's difficult to maintain good posture with weak core muscles and excess fat.

#3 You often feel lethargic

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Feeling tired all the time is a sign that you need some physical activity in your day. If you're tempted to nua all day at home to replenish your energy, it will actually make you feel even more fatigued and sluggish.

Regular exercise is the key to staying energised throughout the day. You'll naturally feel more awake even with light exercise like brisk walking.

#4 You have trouble falling asleep

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If you toss and turn at night, some exercise will help you fall asleep faster and get better quality sleep. Exercise increases your body temperature and the post-exercise drop in temperature may facilitate falling asleep.

#5 You have chronic constipation

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Constipation commonly happens when stool moves too slowly through the digestive tract which may cause it to become hard and dry. In addition to drinking more water and eating fibre-rich foods, exercise can also improve your bowel health.

The more you exercise, the less time it takes for food to travel through the large intestine and the less amount of water that your body absorbs from your stool. This means that your stool will be softer and easier to pass.

#6 You get sick more often

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Falling ill often is a sign of a weak immune system. Regular exercise as well as a healthy diet and adequate sleep are ways to strengthen it.

#7 You're addicted to junk food

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Besides burning off the calories in junk food, exercise may also help reduce your junk food cravings.

When you're trying to overcome an addiction, you crave the substance that was producing endorphins in the brain and creating a sensation of euphoria. High intensity exercise also releases endorphins, causing you to feel a "workout high". Although it's not as intense as chowing down on burger and fries, the effects of exercise can be both mentally and physically satisfying enough to help curb your food cravings.

#8 You feel down more often

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We all have bad days but if your mood tends to stay down for prolonged periods, you might need some high intensity physical activity to help boost your spirits. Exercise releases endorphins and stimulates serotonin which may have a positive effect on mood.

If you've ticked most of these boxes but dread the thought of working out, check out some easy home workouts for beginners and some practical tips to motivate yourself.

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Text by: GirlStyle SG