Researchers have consistently found a strong link between regular exercise and “feeling better”. This feeling is a series of subtle but significant changes in attitude and mood that seem to occur shortly after the start of an exercise workout and continue for the length of the workout. Explanation for the phenomenon range from the psycho chemical (exercise induces the release of morphine-like chemicals in the brain)to the psychological(“I work out, therefore I’m in control of my life”).Whatever the reason, regular exercise seems to stabilize personality. Psychological tests have shown that those who start exercising become more self-confidence and optimistic. Furthermore, exercises have fewer than average symptoms of common mental disorder such as helplessness, anxiety and withdrawal. One study found that a 12-week exercise programmed was equal to or even better than traditional psychotherapy or antidepressant drugs in treating mild depression. In addition, exercise is more effective than some of the most commonly prescribed tranquillizers in reducing muscle tension.
Exercise evidently helps you handle stress, too. Another study – all but fiendish in its approach – compared two groups of students, one of which participated in a week aerobic exercise programme. When the exercise programme ended, each group took a test. Unaware that most of the problems could not be solved, both groups were informed that the test results would indicate how well they would perform in their course work.


