Our bodies are straight up amazing.
The human body has an incredible capacity to experience something new and immediately begin adapting to it on day one. This is particularly impressive when it comes to working out. In just one week of exercise—even if it’s the first time in a verrry long time—each body will experience change. That’s not to say it will be easy or that all intended results will be seen immediately, but here are six you’ll definitely start to notice in the first week.
You will be sore
But that’s a good thing! Working out means ultra tiny damage is being done to the muscles, which causes the pain and inflammation associated with being sore. The muscle then repairs, rebuilds and gets tougher than before. The soreness should only last a day or two, and you can relish in knowing that you’re witnessing in real time your body getting stronger!
You will find clarity
A solid workout increases blood flow and the amount of oxygen getting to the brain. This means your brain is actually able to perform better, making you more alert, focused and able to think at peak performance. Getting in a quick cardio session before a night of writing an important work pitch, preparing for an interview or researching for a project will help to get your brain in the right place.
Your skin will glow
The increased blood flow from exercise helps the body get rid of waste products like free radicals, resulting in a healthy post-workout glow. Sweating will also help to clear out the pores—just remember to keep some face wipes on deck!
Life will be easier
Working out teaches the body to utilize oxygen more efficiently. This lowers the heart rate, makes the heart physically stronger and can make semi-strenuous tasks seem much easier over time. Not only is this good news for you when taking your second or third go at a TRX class, but now that fifth floor walk-up is no problemo.
You will make healthier choices
You may begin to notice a craving for healthier foods, or at least decreased interest in not-so-healthy options. This is one of the top mental perks of working out! Working out is an expression of self-care, and this will seep into other parts of your life. If you’re respecting yourself by exercising and taking care of your body, the decision to nourish your body through healthy food choices tends to follow suit.
You will have sweet dreams
If you’ve ever had trouble sleeping, this may be the first area of your life to be positively impacted by starting a fitness routine. Provided you don’t work out too late at night, you will experience more restful sleep because the body will demand it for recovery. There are few stronger feelings of satisfaction than that flop into bed at night than after completing a challenging new workout!