Feelings About the Importance of Physical Exercise and its Effects on Mental Health

Abstract

Regular physical exercise is associated with numerous health benefits. Individuals that cultivate physically active lifestyles tend to live longer, have lower rates of disease, and have a higher overall quality of life. Regular exercise is also positively associated with mental health. Data for this study were collected from 285 participants. The findings show that a clear majority of participants believe that exercising improves their overall mood (76.5%) and makes them feel better. Around 3 out of 4 respondents stated that exercise lowers stress, while 7 out of 10 stated that it reduces anxiety. Most of the respondents also reported that physical exercise reduces feelings of depression (60.5%). Seven out of 10 participants prefer to exercise alone. Most of the participants wish they had more time to exercise (80.5%), and most also think that they should make time to exercise more often (83.2%). Women were significantly more likely than men to state that they wish they had more time, and should make more time, to exercise. The most preferred and enjoyed forms of exercise reported were going to gym (lifting weights and cardio) and walking/running. This study shows that people generally feel that physical exercise is important for overall mental health.