How Going to the Gym Can Boost Your Mental Health
Most people understand the benefits of going to the gym for physical health. It can help you lose weight, increase muscle mass, or just lead a healthier lifestyle.
However, spending time in the gym can also boost your mental health. Nowadays, mental wellness is in the spotlight more than ever. One 2019 survey by the American Psychological Association found that 87% of people believe having a mental health disorder is nothing to be ashamed of. The stigmas surrounding mental health are dropping, and more people focus on taking care of their bodies and minds.
If you already go to the gym for your physical health, the mental health benefits are a bonus. However, if you’ve been looking for a new way to manage your mental well-being and you haven’t been to the gym in a while, it could be time to work on your mental fitness.
The Exercise and Mental Health Connection
Almost everyone has heard of the term “runner’s high.” It refers to the boost of endorphins the body releases during a long run. However, you don’t have to be a runner to experience this rush of happiness and energy. Any type of exercise can boost your mood and make you feel better. If you’re struggling with your mental health, exercise can help to
Decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety
Reduce stress
Boost your self-esteem
Improve sleep habits
Give your brain a boost
Although it might seem counterintuitive, regular exercise can also give you more energy throughout the day. Working out in the morning, for example, can start your day out on the right foot with a strong energy boost. Or, if you feel sluggish in the afternoon, a quick trip to the gym can fight back against fatigue. Just make sure you’re eating and drinking enough to maintain your energy, too!
When you focus on the mental benefits of exercise, you’ll improve your mind-body connection. Mind-body exercises like yoga and tai-chi are great for your physical health, but they can also help to reduce stress or make it easier to recover from a depressive episode.
The Benefits of Socialization
There’s nothing wrong with working out by yourself. Home gyms have become exceedingly popular over the last few years in light of the pandemic, and there are countless programs and videos online you can use to get in shape.
However, going to the gym gives you something working out at home doesn’t – socialization.
Multiple studies have shown that face-to-face contact with other people is good for your mental health and can boost dopamine levels in the brain. On the contrary, if the COVID-19 pandemic taught us anything, it’s the potentially damaging effects of isolation and loneliness. Some of the biggest risks include
High blood pressure
A weakened immune system
Anxiety
Depression
Cognitive decline
Isolation can even reduce your mortality rate. Spending time with people, even strangers, can make a big difference in your mental health. Going to the gym offers a sense of community and support, whether you ask someone to spot you on a weight bench or you join a class.
How to Build Healthy Gym Habits
If you want to commit to going to the gym more often, you should have your physical and mental health in mind. The desire to improve your overall well-being will make it easier to stay motivated and stick to a routine. However, that doesn’t mean you’ll feel like getting out of bed and driving to your nearest location each day.
Sticking with a gym routine is about developing habits. Thankfully, there are easy ways to get started and things you can do to make it more likely that you’ll keep going several times a week. Keep the following tips in mind to establish healthy gym habits for your mental health.
Choose workouts or classes you enjoy
Make it convenient for your schedule
Set realistic goals and don’t beat yourself up when you don’t get something “right”
Be flexible instead of putting a lot of pressure on yourself
You can also stick to the habit of going to the gym by having someone hold you accountable. Consider working out regularly with a family member or friend. It will boost your morale, improve your socialization, and ensure you stay focused on your goals.
Whether you’re trying to reduce your stress levels or overcome the symptoms of an existing mental health issue, going to the gym is a great way to give your mental well-being a boost. Don’t be intimidated if you’ve never worked out in public before.
Instead, step into your local gym with an open mind, a willingness to meet new people, and the desire to make your mental health a top priority. When you do, you’ll have an easier time finding a rhythm and routine you enjoy, and it won’t take long at all for you to experience lasting benefits.