Final answer:
Regular exercise benefits the musculoskeletal system by increasing muscle strength, promoting tissue repair, and improving bone density through weight-bearing activities. It also reduces stress and the risk of certain lifestyle diseases while enhancing overall physical and mental health.
Step-by-step explanation:
Benefits of Exercising on the Musculoskeletal System
Exercising provides numerous benefits to the musculoskeletal system. One significant benefit is the release of myokines by contracting muscles during exercise. These hormones promote tissue repair and the growth of new tissue, and they have anti-inflammatory effects, which help reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases. Additionally, regular physical exercise leads to stronger and bigger muscles, which enhances the health and functionality of the muscular system.
Weight-bearing exercises are essential for maintaining bone density. Activities such as basketball, tennis, running, and walking stimulate bones to add more bone cells, thereby increasing bone strength and health. Furthermore, exercise is known to lower cortisol levels, which mitigates stress-related physical and mental health issues.
Aside from the direct musculoskeletal benefits, exercise contributes to overarching physical health by reducing the risk for lifestyle diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, some cancers, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Finally, it plays a role in mental health by reducing stress, improving body image, and promoting positive self-esteem.