Getting your blood pumping and large muscle groups working is always a good idea. As the old adage goes, “You will never regret a workout.” Aerobic exercises, also known as cardiovascular activity, include: Swimming, running, brisk walking, cycling, or playing sports. Experts and doctors recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate (walking or swimming) aerobic exercise, or 75 minutes of heavy (running or biking) aerobic activity per week.

Believe it or not, there are crazy health benefits to aerobic exercises. Shocker? Hardly. But did you know about the 9 reasons to do cardio below?

Lowers blood pressure

Cardiovascular exercise can help lower blood pressure by keeping arteries clear, raising high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and lowering bad low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. To lower your blood pressure, aim for 40 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic exercises at least three times a week.

Reduces chronic pain

If you suffer from chronic pain anywhere in your body, cardiovascular exercises (specifically the low-impact activities) can help get back muscle function and endurance. It will also help with weight loss, which will reduce chronic pain even further.

Helps regulate blood sugar

Regular aerobic exercises will help regulate insulin levels and lower blood sugar. Bonus point: This will simultaneously keep your body weight in check as well.

Regulates weight

Exercise is one of the key pillars to weight loss. Cutting calories, in addition to cardiovascular activity, can help to reduce your weight as well.

Improves cardiovascular health

Recommended by the American Heart Association, for those at risk of heart disease, regular exercise can strengthen your heart, and help it pump blood more efficiently to the body.

Improves brain power

Unfortunately, the brain starts losing tissue after you reach age 30. Scientists and experts state that aerobic exercise may slow this loss and improve cognitive performance. Although there are minimal studies and evidence on this, moving your body could be good for your body and brain.

Gives you a better sleep

Ah, those z’s we all wish we had more of. If you’re having trouble sleeping or not sleeping enough, try aerobics. A regular exercise program is one of the most effective treatments for insomnia. Try finishing your workout at least two hours before bedtime. Any closer could also make it difficult to sleep.

Strengthens immune system

Regular moderate aerobic exercises increases antibodies in the blood (called immunoglobulins) that strengthen the immune system.

Boosts mood

It is clinically proven that moving your body can improve your mood.

If you’re looking for more ways to get your body moving try adding some HIIT into your workout routine. And definitely stay fresh after a workout with these post-workout wipes.