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Exercise & Mental Health

Q & A:

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What is exercise defined as?

“Exercise is a subset of physical activity that is planned, structured, and repetitive and has as a final or an intermediate objective the improvement or maintenance of physical fitness.” (Caspersen, C., Powell, K., & Christenson, G. (1985, March). Physical activity, exercise, and physical fitness ... Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1424733/)

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What are some benefits of exercise?

  • Reduction of risk for diabetes (Type II)

  • Reduced likelihood of cardiovascular disease

  • Strengthens bones (reduces osteoperosis risk)

  • Releases endorphins that can help reduce symptoms of depression

  • Reduced risk of cancer

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How much exercise do we need to reap these benefits?

  • According to the US government’s Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans need..

  • 150 minutes of moderate activity each week

  • 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week

  • OR some combination of the two options listed above

 

How Does Exercise Affect Mental Health?

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  • During exercise, you release chemicals such as endorphins. Endorphins- trigger positive feeling in body ex- runner’s high

  • Exercise can treat depression as well as antidepressant medication

  • Exercise promotes changes in brain. New brain activity that promote feelings of calm and well-being

  • Exercise is great in treating anxiety

  • Relieves tension and stress

  • Increases self esteem, weight loss, muscle gain

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