Gym and its Benefits The Top 10 Benefits of Regular Exercise Exercise is defined as any movement that makes your muscles work and requires your body to burn calories. There are many types of physical activity, including swimming, running, jogging, walking, and dancing, to name a few. Being active has been shown to have many health benefits, both physically and mentally. It may even help you live longer ( 1 Trusted Source ). Here are the top 10 ways regular exercise benefits your body and brain. Share on Pinterest W2 Photography/Stocksy 1. Exercise can make you feel happier Exercise has been shown to improve your mood and decrease feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress ( 2 Trusted Source ). It produces changes in the parts of the brain that regulate stress and anxiety. It can also increase brain sensitivity to the hormones serotonin and norepinephrine, which relieve feelings of depression ( 3 Trusted Source ). Additionally, exercise can increase the production of endorphins, which