Exercise Relieves Stress

Not only can exercise help you look better - it can help you feel better as well.

While many people exercise to control weight and get in better physical condition, the stress management aspects of exercise are becoming more apparent.

The build up of stress can be relieved by a high-energy form of exercise - a great session on the stepper, or a strong rowing session can decrease the level of the body's stress chemicals like cortisol and increase your body's feel-good chemicals, giving your mood a natural boost. This is the same chemistry behind a 'runner's high' - you can also have an exercise high.

Getting stuck into a gym session can also act as a distraction by taking your mind off of your problems. Plus going to the gym means you physically remove yourself from a possibly negative environment. Not only that, it gets you involved with others and a group session with friends, or in a class or group setting, can add enjoyment and extra motivation.