Here’s How Working Out Can Save You Up to $2,500 Per Year
There are a gazillion reasons to work out. There are the obvious health factors and the mental health benefits (such as stress relief), sure — but as of last week, when an analysis of a 2012 study of 26,000 Americans was published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, there’s yet another reason to add to the ever-growing list: money.
Contrary to the loss of money you might expect due to gym membership fees, workout gear and the like, the study, which compared the medical expenses of those that worked out versus those that didn’t, found that the active set seemed to be saving — to the tune of upwards of $2,500 a year.
While the biggest beneficiaries were those with a history of cardiovascular disease (members of these groups were seeing fees $2,500 less than that of their non-workout peers), the costs were also lower for those with no history of cardiovascular disease at all, by up to $500. That’s some serious pocket change when you think about it: Plenty to offset any costs you might incur, and then some, in fact!
You’re gonna have to work a little harder than reaching for the remote to change the Netflix selection in order to see a return, however — the American Heart Association recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate-intense exercise five times a week or, alternately, 25 minutes of intense aerobic activity.
Hey, for $500 to 2,500 per year? Sign us up!
Are you surprised by the study’s findings? Share with us over @BritandCo!
(h/t Elite Daily, photos via Getty)