It probably doesn't come as news to anyone that the sluggish economy is, literally, a real downer.
In fact, studies show that - not surprisingly - the depressed economy makes us depressed as well. According to a new survey by New York-based market research company Euro RSCG Worldwide, 45 percent of male respondents and 33 percent of women say the current economic situation negatively affects their mood.
There is, however, a silver lining in these findings: a solid 39 percent of respondents say they are fighting the doldrums by exercising more.
"These people are definitely doing the right thing, because there's abundant proof that exercise can improve our mood and relieve stress," says Matt Scott, a personal trainer at Lincoln Impact Fitness. "As a matter of fact, a Boston University study released last year showed that a regular fitness routine can be as effective as certain medications in treating depression."
How can exercise help combat the blues? In several ways, Scott says:
• It helps release emotional tension and pent-up frustrations, and distracts from worries and negative thoughts that feed anxiety.
• Exercise produces endorphins and raises the body's levels of dopamine, seratonin and norepinephrine - natural "feel good" chemicals.
• Exercise boosts our confidence and makes us more resilient to effects of stress and anxiety. The more you work out, the better you'll be able to handle difficult situations.
It is common for depressed people to feel helpless. True, you can't fix the economy single-handedly, but knowing that you are doing something positive for your own life and health will give you a sense of control and empowerment.
What kind of fitness routine will lift your mood most effectively?
"The one that you enjoy and will stick with!" Scott says. "If you opt for a workout that doesn't excite or challenge you, it will be difficult to get any therapeutic benefits from it."
He recommends a tension-busting exercise regimen that includes strength training and interval training. And, according to Scott, "When you fully exert, you can fully relax." After you fully exert, you may want to also include some breathing exercises while you stretch all of the major muscle groups.
"This way, you will not only release tension, but also boost your heart health and build up muscle mass - essentials for overall health," Scott notes. "Just the knowledge that you are taking such good care of yourself will lift your spirits - in good times and bad."
About the Author:
Matt Scott is a certified personal trainer through NASM, ACE and NESTA. In 2010 he made big changes in his own life, losing over 50 pounds. This process led him to become more involved in health and fitness and for him to discover his true passion for helping people change their lives. In 2010, Matt and wife Kristy founded the American Health and Fitness Institute, a nonprofit organization to raise awareness for childhood obesity and other fitness-related issues facing kids in our community. Matt also has special training working with older adults and is the only AARP-approved certified trainer in the Lincoln and Omaha area by the American Council on Exercise (ACE). Matt can be reached at 402-719-6430 or matt@huskerfitness.com.
