You’ve probably heard it hundreds of times: Exercise is good for your health. And it’s true. Moving your body has many physical benefits, including lowering your risk of serious illness like cancer. But the perks go far beyond feeling physically better. Exercise can also help lift your mood and may even prevent falls as you get older. Let’s take a closer look at the hidden ways movement helps you feel your best. 

1. It can boost your mood

During exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins. Endorphins help your brain feel better by lowering stress and making you happier. Workouts like walking, swimming or gardening can help you sleep better, stay calm and feel more positive each day.

2. It can improve skin health

Movement increases blood flow throughout your body, including to your skin. This delivers more oxygen and nutrients to your skin and gives it a healthy glow. Adding movement to your skin care routine can be a powerful tool in making your skin glow.

3. It can help prevent health problems

Staying active is one of the best ways to keep your body healthy. It can help lower your risk for chronic conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. 

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Regular exercise has also been shown to help prevent certain types of cancer, including:* 

• Bladder
• Breast
• Colon
• Endometrial
• Esophageal
• Kidney
• Lung
• Stomach

If you already have a chronic illness, exercise can still be helpful. Providers often recommend regular physical activity as part of your treatment. It may allow your body to heal and ease some symptoms. But always ask your provider before starting new types of exercise.

4. It can lower your fall risk

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 3 million older adults go to the emergency room every year due to a fall.* Staying active can help keep you steady on your feet. And it may even improve your balance, strength and flexibility. That makes it easier to move safely and lower your risk of falling.
 

The fitness benefit that fits your schedule

Allina Health | Aetna Medicare members get a basic fitness membership through SilverSneakers®. You can use it for live in-person classes or on-demand online classes — whatever works best for your schedule. They also offer other resources like creative and healthy recipes. It's a great chance to improve your health, build confidence and connect with your community. And it’s included in your plan at no added cost.

To find out more about your fitness benefit, call SilverSneakers at 1-855-627-3795 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 8 PM ET.  

Or visit SilverSneakers.com.

5 ways to get moving

You don’t need fancy equipment or a gym to reach your fitness goals. Try these moves to begin your fitness routine at home! But remember to talk to your provider before starting new exercises. 

1. Seated marching
   Sit in a sturdy chair with your feet flat on the floor. Lift one knee as if you’re marching, then lower it and lift the other knee. Continue switching legs.
    
2. Chair squats
   Stand in front of a sturdy chair with your feet shoulder-width apart. Slowly lower yourself as if you’re sitting down, then stand back up.
    
3. Arm raises
   Stand with your arms at your sides. Slowly raise them out until they are level with your shoulders, then lower them.
    
4. Seated twists
   Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the ground. Place your hands on the left side of your seat and gently twist your torso to the left. Switch sides and repeat.
    
5. Leg extensions
   Sit in a chair with your feet flat on the ground. Slowly straighten one leg out in front of you, then lower it. Repeat with the other leg.

*FOR REGULAR EXERCISE AND CANCER: National Cancer Institute. Daily physical activity, even at light intensities, linked to lower cancer risk. March 26, 2025. Accessed January 23, 2026. 

*FOR FALL STATISTIC: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Facts about falls. May 9, 2024. Accessed January 23, 2026.

See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area. SilverSneakers is a registered trademark of Tivity Health, Inc. ©2026 Tivity Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

©2026 Allina Health and Aetna Insurance Company
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