Psychological Benefits of Exercise

Exercising makes the body produce different chemicals, such as serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine. These chemicals influence a person's moods. Beta-endorphins, some of the chemicals released by the body, are responsible for that state known as "runner's high." Many people feel better after exercising. They have more energy and are more alert. Next time you find yourself in the afternoon slump, take a quick walk instead of grabbing a candy bar or energy drink.

Exercise can help with clinical depression. Studies indicate that both anaerobic and aerobic exercise stimulate the production of serotonin and other chemicals that improve mood. These improvements can be felt after just one session, although the best benefits occur after approximately four months of consistent exercise sessions. In order to keep yourself exercising consistently, try new things and set aside time each day. If you have the most energy in the morning, then wake up thirty minutes earlier to jog or go to the gym. Trying different activities will prevent you from getting bored. Take different classes, such as swimming, Pilates, or tennis.

Exercise has also been linked with anxiety reduction. Regular exercise can help you cope with anxiety and stress that is a big part of everyday life. Research indicates that people who are more physically fit may actually handle stress better. So far, only aerobic exercise has been linked with reducing stress and anxiety. So next time you have had a tough day at work or a problem worrying you, then instead of grabbing a bag of potato chips or turning on the television, go for a brisk walk or bike ride around the block.

Although self-esteem is subjective and varies from person to person, there is a correlation between an increase in self-esteem and consistent physical exercise. Because of the improvements in physical strength, fitness, and appearance, consistent exercise has also been reported to increase self-confidence and self-reliance.

You may be wondering how you can get these benefits. You do not have to exercise for hours every day. Researchers have done studies, which indicate that as little as ten minutes of exercise can reduce fatigue, confusion, and improve mood. Even if you have a hectic schedule, you can slip ten minutes of exercise in per day. For example, try walking to a nearby restaurant for lunch. How many times per week do you have to exercise to achieve significant benefits? In a study in Finland, participants who exercised two or more times per week reported much more positive moods than those who exercised less frequently. If the physical benefits of exercise were not enough to convince you to start and maintain a regular workout schedule, then the psychological benefits should be more than enough of an incentive. It will not take hours a day to achieve significant benefits, and you should notice the changes quickly.

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