Increased metabolic rate is one of the many benefits of exercise. It helps burn more calories, making you healthier. Exercising regularly also improves your body’s overall performance. But, is an increase in metabolic rate really beneficial? It depends on what you do. If you want to boost your metabolism and lose weight, it is important to engage in regular physical activity. Regular physical activity can improve your cardiovascular health. But, if you are only doing it for weight loss, it will reduce your total calories.
A rise in metabolic rate is associated to an increase in blood levels noradrenaline and adrenaline. These hormones can be controlled by the sympathetic nerves embedded in muscles. Exercise increases the activity of these nerves, raising resting metabolic rate. Exercise also stimulates thyroid hormones, which step up general metabolic activity. Exercise helps increase metabolism, and therefore keeps you healthy and fit.