Protect your Mental Health with Strength Training
When you’re feeling tired or overwhelmed, the temptation to skip your workout can be strong. However, exercise can actually be the key to revitalising and rejuvenating your energy levels.
Engaging in a full-body workout at the gym not only strengthens your muscles with each movement but also toughens up your mental health. Research indicates that individuals who exercise regularly, particularly incorporating strength training into their routine, experience better mental health and lower rates of mental illness compared to those who don’t work out.
While past studies have primarily focused on the emotional benefits of aerobic exercise, recent research has begun to highlight the positive impact of strength training on mental well-being as well. A study conducted at Penn State University revealed that strength training significantly reduced symptoms of depression. This underscores the importance of selecting a workout regimen that includes strength training for women, as it contributes to overall mental and physical health.
The Link Between Exercise & Mental Health
The psychological benefits of exercise manifest in both short-term and long-term effects. In the short term, engaging in an invigorating full-body workout can effectively lift you out of an emotional slump. The sense of accomplishment you feel upon completing your workout provides an immediate boost to your mood. Moreover, the mental benefits of exercise extend well beyond the workout session, leaving you feeling stronger and more confident throughout the day.
Here are some specific benefits of exercise on mental health:
More get up and go
Engaging in a full-body workout for women may seem like it would leave you feeling fatigued, but exercise actually provides a significant energy boost. There are several reasons for this phenomenon. Firstly, when you exercise, your cells produce more mitochondria. These mitochondria play a crucial role in generating energy for your body. With an increase in mitochondria, your body has a larger energy supply at its disposal.
Additionally, exercise boosts oxygen levels in your body and elevates the production of hormones that contribute to feelings of energy and alertness. These combined effects contribute to the revitalising and energising effects of exercise, leaving you feeling invigorated rather than drained after your workout.
Better sleep
Achieving optimal functioning without a good night’s sleep can be challenging; however, exercise offers another mental benefit by improving sleep quality. According to the National Sleep Foundation, engaging in moderate to vigorous exercise enhances sleep quality by reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and decreasing the likelihood of waking up in the middle of the night. Establishing a regular exercise routine can also mitigate daytime sleepiness and diminish the reliance on sleep medications. Indirectly, exercise contributes to maintaining a healthy weight, which in turn helps prevent sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. By incorporating exercise into your daily routine, you can promote better sleep and overall mental well-being.
Feel-good hormones
When you engage in the Curves Circuit and work up a sweat, your body releases hormones known as endorphins. These hormones not only help reduce pain but also have a positive impact on your mental well-being. Endorphins are responsible for the phenomenon often referred to as a “runner’s high,” but you can experience similar feelings of euphoria and well-being by participating in a workout for women, such as the full-body workout at Curves. By stimulating the release of endorphins, exercise not only enhances physical fitness but also uplifts your mood, leaving you feeling refreshed and mentally invigorated.
Sharpens your focus
Research indicates that strength training can play a role in safeguarding areas of the brain that are susceptible to Alzheimer’s disease. In a study conducted in Australia, researchers discovered that six months of strength training resulted in protective effects on these brain regions, which persisted for up to one year later.
It’s important to remember that exercise shouldn’t be stressful, and you don’t need to commit to lengthy workouts to maintain strength and activity. With the Curves Circuit lasting just 30 minutes, it’s convenient to incorporate a full-body workout into your busy schedule. Curves offer a supportive environment where you can start at a comfortable pace and gradually increase your strength, all at your own rhythm. Additionally, for days when visiting the gym isn’t feasible, MyCurves On Demand provides flexibility, allowing you to complete your workout wherever and whenever it suits you.
Curves are not only beneficial for physical health but also promote mental well-being. With its 30-minute workout suitable for all fitness levels and emphasis on strength training for women, Curves fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. Moreover, you’ll gain immediate access to a supportive community of women who will cheer you on, fostering emotional well-being. Your Curves Coach will offer motivation and guidance, assisting you in setting and achieving fitness goals as you progress on your journey.
Exercise offers numerous physical and mental benefits, making it essential to prioritise staying active and engaging in strength training to safeguard your mental health. Regardless of your age, fitness level, or mindset, there’s no better time than now to join Curves and embark on your fitness journey.
