Exercise to boost your mood

Exercise is well-known for its physical benefits, but its impact on mental health is equally impressive.

Whether you’re managing stress, anxiety, or depression, the effect of incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can be profound.

Exercise triggers the release of ‘feel good’ hormones, such as serotonin and dopamine, whilst also lowering cortisol (stress hormone).

In a recent study, researchers from the University of South Australia have found that physical activity is 1.5x’s more effective than counselling or the leading medications. The review specifically showed that interventions of 12 weeks or less were extremely effective, highlighting how quickly exercise can improve symptoms.

Our group exercise classes can be a great way to either ease back in to exercise or push forwards towards your goals, whether that be physical or mental, whilst also improving social involvement and connection.

Obviously, exercising in groups isn’t everyone’s favourite way to exercise. Ultimately, the best form of exercise is the one that you enjoy and are happy to do regularly. At least 20-30 minutes per day is a good starting point. The government recommendations for physical activity are 2.5-5 hours of moderate intensity exercise, or 1.5-2.5 hours of vigorous exercise (or a combination of the two), each week.

Whatever path or exercise you choose, the key is consistency and enjoyment. The more you enjoy something, the more likely it is you are to do it.

Overall, exercise can form a massive part in the management of mental health and can be another tool in your toolbox.