In college, I was involved in a large-scale study measuring the effects of exercise on anxiety and depression. As a participant I was required to exercise 30 minutes three times per week, keeping my heart rate above a certain level for the full 30 minutes. The heart rate control always meant that I was actually exercising for longer than 30 minutes, as it took some time to get my heart rate within optimal range.
As part of the study we were required to fill out occasional questionnaires self-reporting our anxiety levels and any depressive symptoms. Beginning the study, I had assumed that there was a positive correlation between exercise and an increased sense of well-being but I also was surprised to see the difference in my self-reported sense of well-being from the beginning to the end of the three-month study. At first, the changes were subtle, and I can’t say that I noticed much difference, but I ended up in a much better place mentally.
What is your experience with the positive psychological benefits of exercise? Have you found there is a specific amount of time or a certain number of days required to reap any mental benefits? In your opinion are there certain types of physical activity that seem to work better for things like anxiety and depression?
As part of the study we were required to fill out occasional questionnaires self-reporting our anxiety levels and any depressive symptoms. Beginning the study, I had assumed that there was a positive correlation between exercise and an increased sense of well-being but I also was surprised to see the difference in my self-reported sense of well-being from the beginning to the end of the three-month study. At first, the changes were subtle, and I can’t say that I noticed much difference, but I ended up in a much better place mentally.
What is your experience with the positive psychological benefits of exercise? Have you found there is a specific amount of time or a certain number of days required to reap any mental benefits? In your opinion are there certain types of physical activity that seem to work better for things like anxiety and depression?