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Mental Health and Exercise

Posted By: Frank Rosalie on 02/08/2012

As a Fitness Professional I would like to cover how exercise can help alleviate stress or help people cope with depression. Almost everyone, during their lifetime, gets stressed out or depressed to some degree.

There is evidence from researchers that certain levels of physical activity can affect mental health in a positive way.

Stress - Research, over the last 10 years, shows that people who engage in physical activity are capable of managing this “silent killer” more effectively than those who are less fit. It appears that moderate intensity aerobic exercise is the method that helps to reduce stress.

Correct intensity levels of exercise performed 3 times per week for at least 20 minutes seems to have the most influence on helping people to cope with day-to-day stress.

Depression – People who are diagnosed with depression have said that exercise has helped them, in many cases, to cope with mild depression.

Cardiovascular and resistance training seem to offer anti-depressive effects. Research has shown that improvements can be felt after 4 weeks, but the greatest effects come after 17 weeks.

It stands to reason that if you feel or look better physically, you will often feel better mentally.

Anxiety – Again, exercise comes into play to reduce anxiety. Low-moderate-high intensity exercise is most beneficial. If you are not sure what level of intensity is best for you,, consult with a Certified Personal Trainer.

Research shows that, to receive the most benefit from any type of exercise, an individual should train anywhere from 10-15 weeks.

To Recap:

Exercising on a regular basis has so many positive benefits; why do so many avoid it?

Of course, before embarking on any exercise program, consult with your physician.