Stress Reduction Through Exercise

When you feel stressed and time is tight, is your exercise the first thing to disappear?

That's a mistake: exercise reduces stress and anxiety. Exercise is powerful anti-stress medicine. Results that can be derived from physical activity are:

Less anxious. Studies have found that exercise significantly reduces electrical activity in tense muscles as soon as your workout ends. That makes you less jittery and less hyperactive.

Improved mood and enhanced relaxation by increasing the release of endorphins for 90 to 120 minutes after a workout.

Motivation to improve your diet. Good nutrition is key for reducing stress. Studies show that when you exercise you take better care of yourself and you eat healthier.

Feeling better about yourself. When you exercise you improve your self-image and boost self-esteem.

To optimize exercise's anti-stress benefits, choose an activity suited to your personality. Walking, yoga and recreational sports are popular choices. For those who want to be alone, solo activities like jogging provide a relaxing escape. Or take group fitness classes if a social environment is your cup of sports-drink. If possible, exercise away from the office and don't let work's obligations put the kibosh on workouts.

Bio

Gregory Florez is the president and CEO of First Fitness Inc. He is a spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise (ACE), as well as an advisor for advanced certificate training through ACE.