

Ask the Trainer: Use exercise as a stress reducer

10:27 PM, Apr. 30, 2013  |  Comments
Lynn Paulow
Lynn Paulow
  • Filed Under

Q: I have always heard that exercise is a good stress reducer. Any thoughts or ideas on this?

A: Oh, yes, exercise is my favorite stress buster and it is for many others as well. Exercise triggers endorphines which are our "good feeling hormones." It lifts your spirits and re-energizes you. Then why do so many of us think of exercise as something we have to endure and complete as quickly as possible?

Think of exercise as activity or movement. Simply make the most of any opportunity during your day. Walking is one of the easiest ways to add movement to your day - morning, noon or night! Purchase a good pair of walking shoes and get outside. Fresh air and sunlight can lift your mood in just a few minutes. Don't forget to take a few, deep belly breaths while you are out there. If walking doesn't sound like a whole lot of fun, find something that you do enjoy. There's jogging, biking, yoga, Pilates, golf, tennis, bowling, basketball, dancing, jumping rope or in-line skating. Anything that gets your body moving. Another way to stay accountable to exercise is to work out with an exercise buddy. Helps to get you out of bed in the morning!

Another option is to commit to a gym or health club membership. There are lots of exercise choices, and taking classes can be fun! Many clubs have saunas and whirlpools which are great for relaxing after your workout. And, finally, you can purchase a few exercise DVDs or purchase a piece of exercise equipment for in your own home.

You knew exercise can decrease blood pressure, can lower the heart rate and slow your breathing, decrease your risk of diabetes and some cancers, but now you know that exercise or movement can be your best stress buster, and energizer, too!