As an experienced Personal Trainer I always ask my clients, “What are your fitness goals?“ The common answer is weight loss or getting toned, there’s a few that answer, “I just want to feel better mentally.” Is exercise good for your mental health? Experts agree it will reduce your stress and anxiety. While there are so many factors to consider I can say from personal experience that my workout routine has helped my mood and also created many ongoing friendships. Let’s take a look at how working out can help your mental health and what you can do to integrate exercise into your daily routine.
Are you stressed out and angry? Grab a medicine ball and slam it as hard as you can on the floor or against a wall, perform 2-3 sets of 10. It’s a great way to work out your anger and raise your heart rate. Other intense activities such as slamming ropes, or box jumps can decrease your anxiety and lower your depression. It’s giving you an outlet to get rid of stress in a controlled setting.
Need to unwind and chill? Try a dance class, yoga or go for a walk. These activities give you the space you need to re-center and declutter your head. A natural way to improve your sleep.
Running, cycling or swimming are excellent for decreasing stress. Aerobic activities release endorphins which will improve your mood and strengthen your cardiovascular system.
Creating a network of friends with like interests such as working out will boost your confidence and self-esteem. I’ve seen many lasting relationships start out in a group fitness class or on the weight room floor.
Sometimes you need to be a kid again and play. There are times in my boot camp class where I add skipping to a circuit or I start a game of tag for our warm up. People unwind, when they laugh and work together to have some fun. Get out there swing on a swing, ride a scooter or go for a hike. Sometimes movement is best way to meditate.
