Research has shown that physical fitness and/or physical activity has had positive impacts on those with mental issues such as depression. According to Lynette L. Craft, having some sort of physical activity, both aerobic and nonaerobic, routine implemented into one’s life helps reduce the symptoms of depression just as effectively as medication or different types of therapy. It even works long term, Craft found that routines/programs “9 weeks or longer [were] associated with larger reductions in depression.” As someone who has been to through the experience of being depressed, I can attest to this claim. I have noticed that the more I work out, the more I start to feel in much better spirits.
Craft gives five hypotheses as to why this happens.
Craft gives five hypotheses as to why this happens.