As more and more research comes out about the benefits of exercise on mental health, it’s clear that physical activity isn’t just good for our bodies – it’s good for our minds, too. As a personal trainer, I’ve seen firsthand how exercise can positively impact my clients’ mental wellbeing, and I’ve made it my mission to design workouts that prioritize this aspect of their health. In this article, I’ll be sharing my step-by-step process for creating workout plans that prioritize mental health benefits. Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or just starting out, these tips will help you make the most of your workouts and support your overall wellbeing.
Exercise is frequently hailed as a powerful tool for maintaining and improving mental health. According to a recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, regular exercise is even effective in treating symptoms of depression and anxiety. However, not all exercises are created equal, and some may have negative mental health impacts, especially when related to exercise addiction. So, how can we ensure that our workouts are serving both our bodies and minds?
Grace Albin, a Pilates instructor and personal trainer with a passion for optimizing exercise for mental well-being, shares her best mental health exercise tips:
Tip 1: Find what works for you
Reaping the most mental health benefits from your workout means exercising consistently, so finding an activity that you genuinely enjoy can help with this. When you find the right form of movement, you will know as it will be something that makes you feel good and that you can look forward to. Trying new forms of physical activity can help keep your workouts exciting and fresh.
Tip 2: Be selfish about your workout time
For your workout to benefit your mind, as well as your body, make sure it is genuinely your time. Resist the temptation to multitask or listen to work-related podcasts during your workout. Instead, make it a multisensory experience by listening to music that you enjoy or exercising in a beautiful, natural environment that you appreciate.
Tip 3: Create a designated exercise space
Creating a dedicated exercise space, even if it is only a small one, can help you remain mentally present during your workout. Make your space inviting, and include lighting and music that will help you feel comfortable and relaxed.
Tip 4: Keep it simple
While having fancy equipment and products can be motivating and make exercising more enjoyable, it can also bring guilt or stress into your workout if you cannot afford these items. Thus, it is essential to keep things simple and remember that you do not need anything special to exercise.
Tip 5: Leave the competitive mindset for another day
Most importantly, avoid competitive workouts, as these can often be detrimental to mental health. Make sure to take at least one workout a week that is just about enjoying moving your body.
In conclusion, exercise can be a fantastic tool for maintaining and improving your mental health, but finding the right form of exercise and making sure that it is a relaxing, enjoyable experience is essential. With these mental health exercise tips, you can make sure that every workout is both beneficial and enjoyable.
In the midst of a global pandemic and the everyday demands of life, taking care of your mental health is more important than ever. Incorporating physical exercise into your routine can be a powerful tool for boosting your overall sense of well-being. As a trainer, I rely on science-backed methods and a holistic approach when designing workouts for my clients. By tailoring exercises to their individual needs, interests, and abilities, I can help them tap into the mental health benefits of exercise. Remember, taking care of your mental health is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. So, give yourself the gift of movement, and watch your mind and body flourish.
