Can exercise improve your mental health?
We all know that regular exercise is an important component of good physical health. But did you know that it can also significantly enhance your mental health? Research has shown that those who exercise regularly have better mental and emotional well-being, as well as lower rates of mental illness. Here are some key mental health benefits of incorporating exercise into your routine.
1. Reduced stress levels
Regular workouts are highly effective in reducing stress. Exercise stimulates the production of endorphins in the brain, mood-elevating hormones that are responsible for the ‘runner’s high’. Long term, exercise also reduces the body’s levels of stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol.
2. Enhanced sleep
Consistent workouts can significantly improve your sleep, and a good night’s rest is not only beneficial for your physical health but can have a profound impact on your mental well-being. Exercise helps to regulate your sleep patterns, helping you fall asleep and stay asleep. Recent research found that those with higher levels of regular exercise report less troubled sleep, reduced tiredness and better sleep quality.
3.Increased self-esteem and better mental health
Pursuing and achieving meaningful goals is important for keeping yourself energised and motivated. Fitness goals can be a great thing to pursue, and reaching them can be a big boost to your self-esteem. Working with a personal trainer to provide personalised guidance can be a big help here, and at Xpress Personal Training we’re always happy to help.
4. Social connection
Connecting to others socially can help you feel validated and give you a place where you feel you belong. Both of these can be big benefits to mental health. Exercise routines can be a great place to find social connection, whether through a sporting club or a regular gym. Adding music to your workouts is another way to connect with like-minded music buffs as you exercise. Here at Xpress, we pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming and supportive community that provides lots of opportunities for making new connections.
5. Improved resilience
Try as we might to avoid them, life is always going to throw challenges our way. There’s some evidence that regular exercisers are better able to cope with stressful events. Building this resilience through your training can help you learn to cope better with life’s challenges.
6. Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression
Regular physical activity has also been shown to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, both in those with diagnosed mental health issues and in the general population. A recent review study recommended that exercise be a mainstay in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other forms of psychological distress.
7. Better awareness of hunger and satiety
When you exercise, you become more aware of being full or hungry. It helps you tune in your body’s signals. More awareness of what you are eating can lead to a better diet and importantly, eating to sustain your workouts.
Conclusion
Here at Xpress Personal Training, we’re passionate about helping you pursue your fitness goals and improve your health — including your mental health. Regular exercise offers a multitude of mental health benefits, and incorporating personal training sessions into your routine can be a great way of increasing motivation and improving consistency.
If you’re looking to jumpstart your fitness journey and see these benefits for yourself, shout out to our friendly trainers today.