The impact of exercise on mental health is influenced significantly by the context in which it occurs, including factors like social interaction and environment. A study from the University of Georgia emphasizes that the focus should shift from merely measuring duration and intensity of exercise to understanding the motivations and circumstances that shape physical activity. Engagement in leisure-time activities, such as running or yoga, is linked to lower levels of depression and anxiety, highlighting the importance of the setting and social elements involved in exercise.
"Historically, physical activity research has focused on how long someone exercises for or how many calories were burned. The 'dose' of exercise has been the dominant way researchers have tried to understand how physical activity might influence mental health, while often ignoring whether those minutes were spent exercising with a friend or as part of a game."
"Research shows that leisure-time physical activity - like going for a run, taking a yoga class or biking for fun - correlates with better mental health outcomes, but these benefits may vary significantly depending on the environment and circumstances surrounding the activity."
Collection
[
|
...
]