We all know that exercise has many benefits and we can quickly list weight reduction, heart health and disease prevention as common positive results of regular physical activity. But don’t stop there. Recent research shows that keeping physically active provides perks in other areas of our lives as well by improving brain function and mental health.
For children, physical activity may help improve academic performance. Moderate to vigorous physical activity was linked to better academic performance across the three major subjects of English, math and science with increased test scores for both boys and girls.
Exercise helps adult mental health as well. Sometimes we make excuses for not exercising because we are too busy or stressed to fit it into our routine. And the holidays can add another layer of stress as well. Hold on a second — there’s good news when it comes to exercise and stress.
Physical activity has some direct stress-busting benefits. It helps to bump up the production of your brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters, called endorphins. After a fast-paced game of racquetball or a brisk walk, you’ll often find that you’ve forgotten the day’s irritations.
Regular exercise can increase self-confidence and lower the symptoms associated with mild depression and anxiety. Exercise also can improve your sleep, which is often disrupted by stress, depression and anxiety. All of this can ease your stress levels and give you a sense of command over your body and your life.
Virtually any form of exercise, from aerobics to yoga, is beneficial to your overall wellbeing. If you’re not an athlete or even if you’re downright out of shape, you can still make a little exercise go a long way toward improving your health. Discover the connection between exercise and mental function — and why exercise should be part of your everyday routine.
Written by: Polly Loy, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Science Educator, OSU Extension, Belmont County, Buckeye Hills EERA
Reviewed by: Michelle Treber, Family and Consumer Sciences, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Pickaway County, Heart of Ohio EERA
References:
Physical Activity and Health – the Benefits of Physical Activity, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved November 26, 2013 http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/everyone/health/index.html#ImproveMentalHealth
Haines, C., MD. Exercise and School Grades – National Library of Medicine. Retrieved November 26, 2013
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/videos/news/School_Grades_102213-1.html
Exercise and Stress: Get Moving to Manage Stress, May Clinic. Retrieved November 26, 2013
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/exercise-and-stress/SR00036
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