Why Should We Train?

“If the WHY is powerful, the HOW is easy.” – Jim Rohn

Today, more and more people are engaging in physical activity. Whether it’s going to the gym, running, playing team sports, or practicing other forms of movement—there are countless ways to stay active. But why is it really important? Let me share with you the most powerful reasons to train regularly.

1. Exercise Strengthens the Body

It’s no secret that training strengthens your muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones—especially strength training. In fact, in some countries, strength training is recommended as part of osteoporosis treatment. It also plays a key role in preventing injuries.

Cardiovascular exercises, on the other hand, support the heart and circulatory system. They improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and contribute to overall heart health. Regular training also helps maintain a healthy body composition and effectively burns calories.

2. Mental and Brain Benefits

Have you ever noticed how great you feel after a workout? That’s because exercise releases endorphins—your brain’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. These hormones improve mood, calm the mind, and boost self-esteem.

Exercise has even been proven effective in treating depression. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), “the efficacy of exercise in decreasing symptoms of depression has been well established.” Dr. Ben Singh from the University of South Australia adds, “Research shows that exercise is 1.5 times more effective than counselling or medication.”

Exercise also enhances brain health and cognitive function. For more on this, check out my other article: “How Exercise Influences Brain Health.”

3. Other Health Benefits

How can we prevent illness and stay healthy? The answer: train regularly. Exercise strengthens the immune system, making us more resilient to sickness. It also improves sleep quality, which in turn supports both immunity and brain function.

4. Grit – The Power of Perseverance

Psychologist Angela Lee Duckworth has spent years researching the concept of “grit.” She discovered that long-term success isn't achieved by the most talented or intelligent individuals, but by those who possess grit—passion and perseverance for long-term goals.

Grit means treating life like a marathon, not a sprint—thinking in years, not days. Regular training is one of the best ways to develop grit, especially on the days when motivation is low. Training teaches us discipline, consistency, and how to push through discomfort. It builds mental toughness and resilience—skills that go far beyond the gym.

Conclusion

As you can see, the benefits of regular exercise go far beyond looking good. While physical appearance can be a motivator, there are even more powerful reasons to train: for your health, your mind, and your entire quality of life.

Remember: we don’t train to be good at training—we train to be good at life.