Hamilton Personal Trainer's Read
The Psychological Facts
Exercise, both acute and chronic, is associated with an improved psychological state, (Morgan, W.O. (1982) Psychological Benefits of Physical Activity: Sport in Perspective. The Coaching Association of Canada.)
There is a positive relationship between mood and physical activity. As physical activity increases, mental state improves. There is evidence that a positive relationship exists between physical training and selected mental health variables. Physical exercise has positively effected body image and self concept. Physical activity also seems to prevent depression and anxiety.
Physical activity can have a significant effect on mental health. Physically active adults have enhanced self concepts and self esteem, as indicated by increased confidence, assertiveness, emotional stability, independence, and self control.
Exercise is associated with improvements in mental health including mood state and self esteem. Evidence indicates that benefits associated with exercise are comparable to gains found with standard forms of psychotherapy. For healthy individuals the principal psychological benefit of exercise may be prevention, whereas for those suffering from mild to moderate emotional illness, exercise may function as a means of treatment. Regular physical activity is of benefit to both physical and psychological health. Adults that exercise regularly have a better body image. Exercise can be used effectively as a form of psychotherapy.
Unemployment may cause individuals to feel guilty or inadequate. Recreational activities can provide the unemployed with an alternative to work that may help them develop self-confidence and exsperience satisfaction. Today's modern Health Clubs have become an extremely affordable environment, accessible to all sector's of the population regardless of anyone's skill level.
Regular bouts of moderate physical activity reduce the symptoms of mild or moderate depression and anxiety neuroses by improving self image, social skills, mental health, perhaps cognitive functions, and total well-being. On average, persons who are higher active are at two times lower risk for depressive symptoms.
There is clear evidence that physical activity and physical trainig provides individuals with a more positive self image and therefore results in improvements is mental health.