It’s no secret that exercise can help improve your physical health and well-being, but did you know the mental effects of exercise can be just as profound? That’s right fellow fitness lovers, we’re talking brains and brawn!
An increasing amount of research has highlighted the benefits of exercise on the brain, ranging from increased creativity to lower stress levels. Here are six reasons you should hit the gym to keep your brain just as fit as your body.
1. Mood Booster – The American Psychological Association examined the “mood-enhancement effect” of exercise and found that working out can lift your spirits in as little as five minutes — meaning a short stroll outside can be just what you need to cure a bout of the blues. Even more importantly, regular exercise can help combat long-term depression and anxiety.
2. Disease Fighter – Studies have shown that one of the benefits of exercise on the brain is a possible decreased risk of developing diseases like Alzheimer’s and cancer . A quick gym session every other day can increase blood flow to your brain — which helps boost brain cell production , and thus, improve brain health.
3. Confidence Builder – Hop on the treadmill to look (and more importantly, feel) like a million bucks. On a very basic level, physical fitness can boost self-esteem and improve positive self-image. Regardless of weight, size, gender, or age, exercise can quickly elevate a person’s perception of his or her attractiveness, that is, self-worth
4. Social Catalyst – Exercise can also help build good social skills, which are ultimately linked to improved health and happiness. A University of Michigan study found that active children “are more likely to demonstrate good social skills, such as leadership and empathy, which can, in turn, influence healthy behaviors.” If you ever find yourself feeling lonely, consider meeting a friend for a workout; you will likely enjoy a mental (and physical) boost.
5. Tap into Creativity – Most people end a tough workout with a hot shower, but maybe we should be breaking out the colored pencils instead. A heart-pumping gym session can boost creativity for up to two hours afterwards
6. Stress Buster – Numerous studies have proven that exercise helps reduce stress. It’s a fact. As the Anxiety and Depression Association of America simply put it, “If your body feels better, so does your mind.
Working out can have positive effects far beyond the gym (and beach season). Gaining self-confidence, getting out of a funk, and even thinking smarter are some of the motivations to take time for exercise on a regular basis. What inspires you to stay fit?
