A. Research shows that exercise has beneficial effects in
several areas. These areas include the
reduction of anxiety and depression, enhancing of mood (from bad to good),
improving self-concept, and improving overall life quality and
satisfaction.
Most
often the research is correlational, that is showing an association between
exercise and one or more of these phenomenon.
Typically,
longer training programs have greater impact.
Typically,
this is non-competitive exercise.
Typically,
the immediate effects are short-lived (about a day or less)
There
are reductions in muscle tension, resting heart rate, and stress hormones.
Exercise
can be as effective as therapy (in one study, 3 sessions a week for 16 weeks).
B. How does this seem to work?
There is not one explanation. It
is hypothesized that there are effects on physiological functioning and
psychological functioning.
Physiological includes:
increased cerebral blood flow, changes in brain neurotransmitters,
increases in oxygen to brain, reduced muscle tension, structural changes in
brain. Psychological factors include:
increased feelings of control, increased feelings of self-competency, improved
social interactions, improved self-concept, and greater opportunities for
fun.
C. Can exercise change
personality and mental functioning?
Yes, it can alter body image and thus enhance self-esteem and
self-concept. Both children and adults
reportedly show improvement in self-concept following fitness and exercise
D. Hardiness is a
personality style that serves to protect people from the effects of
stress. Hardy people feel in control,
are involved and committed, and deal well with changes and challenges. Exercise in combination with hardiness are
more effective in reducing the negative effects of stress than either one
alone.
E. Exercise and Quality
of Life. Quality of life refers to how
much satisfaction one gets out of life both psychologically and
physically. Exercise and physical
activity has been shown to improve
Health,
stamina, overall life satisfaction, and coping with stress
Self-esteem and self-confidence
Mood and reduce depression. Many mental health professionals and
physicians recommend exercise for their patients. Running is often recommended in addition to more traditional
forms of therapy. However, dropout
rates from various exercise and workout programs can be high.
F. Regular intense exercise may result in feelings of
euphoria, spirituality, and relaxation
as is seen in the runner’s high.
Class exercise: Write a paragraph (to be shared) about how
physical activity affects you emotionally.