How does exercise help with stress?

Physical activity and exercise are significant for health and quality of life. It is known that exercise has preventive effects in different states, be they physical injury, cardiovascular diseases, or even mental disorders. Studies have shown that exercise is connected to a general feeling of well-being and lower rates of anxiety and affective disorders. Still, the mechanisms by which exercise accomplishes all these benefits for the human body aren’t always precise. One hypothesis is that exercise helps with dealing with stress, a common cause of physical and mental problems.

Exercising is one of the best ways to combat stress; some research suggests that even 20 – 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise daily can help the person feel significantly less under stress.

One hypothesis about how physical activity and exercise affect stress is that they help adapt to everyday stress. Exercising is also a form of stress, as well as increased heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels, the stress hormone. So, regular activation of these stress systems can provide an opportunity for adaptation and more efficient reactions.

Exercising also promotes the secretion of endorphins, the neurotransmitters responsible for feelings of well-being. Endorphins are also responsible for euphoria, which can often be noticed after exercising. This feeling of well-being after exercise can last for a short period but stacks up over time.

Physical activity can also help distract a person from specific daily worries and help focus on the body instead of the mind; repetitive exercises can have meditative properties. This can also be a function of a break or rest period, which can be significant.

It is also essential to state that all the other numerous ways in which physical activity affects health indirectly affect stress reduction. Physical activity increases confidence and mood, helps with relaxation, promotes healthier sleep, strengthens the immune system, and lowers the risk of anxiety disorders and depression.

If you haven’t exercised or have health concerns, you might want to consult a doctor before beginning a new exercise routine.

There is no need to rush; beginning at a slower pace and gradually increasing intensity and quantity are better for the long term. Being excited and quickly entering a new physical activity or exercise regimen can cause injury.

Almost all forms of exercise or physical activity help with stress reduction; choose what you find enjoyable.

Sticking with it is crucial; making exercise part of your routine and gradually increasing the intensity through realistic goals can help with consistency.

Childs, E., & De Wit, H. (2014). Regular exercise is associated with emotional resilience to acute stress in healthy adults. Frontiers in Physiology, 5. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2014.00161

Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469

This text is intended for informational purposes only. If you experience any symptoms, it is recommended to seek advice from your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional.