Fitness Routine and Mental Health

We all know the importance of exercise for our physical health, but what about our mental health? Do you have a plan to make mental health part of your fitness routine? This week Activ8 would like to share with you how your fitness routine can help you keep our mind healthy. 

As studies show, people who exercise regularly have better mental health and emotional well-being. Why? Because exercise has many benefits for mental health

• Regular exercise increases the size of the hippocampus, which has a major role in learning and memory.
• The levels of chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin, stress hormones, and endorphins, change when you exercise. These chemicals are responsible for several positive effects on brain.
• Regular exercise can help you sleep better. And good sleep helps you manage your mood.
• Exercise can improve your sense of control, coping ability, and self-esteem. People who exercise regularly often report how good achieving a goal makes them feel. 
• Exercise can distract you from negative thoughts and provide opportunities to try new experiences.
• It offers an opportunity to socialize and get social support if you exercise with others. 
• Exercise increases your energy levels. 
• Physical activity can be an outlet for your frustrations. 
• Exercise can reduce skeletal muscle tension, which helps you feel more relaxed. 

These are some of the benefits which you can get from your fitness routine and mental health. But, do you have difficulties getting started or getting motivated, or continuing to exercise on a long-term basis? Here are some tips to get you started.

• Do what is enjoyable – Plan activities that you used to find enjoyable, interesting, relaxing, or satisfying. Our trainers will help you with your fitness planning.  
• Work with other people – our group classes create a big opportunity for making new friends or you can make a plan to be with your friends or family members. Working with other people can help increase wellbeing and confidence and provide opportunities to socialize.
• Make a plan – planning a routine can help people become more active. Make sure some form of exercise is included each day. Try to stick to the plan as closely as possible, but be flexible.

We would like to hear from you about how your fitness routine connects to your mental health. What is your motivation or tips to make fitness a part of your lifestyle?