Exercise and Stress Response

According to a growing body of evidence, physical activity may be able to counter the negative emotional effects of stress and be a significant aid in stress management.

William P. Morgan, a renowned sports psychologist, has documented that world class athletes’ score below the general population on traits associated with anxiety, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion, and above the general population on vigor. Similar results have been observed in non-athletic individuals who have been involved in a regular exercise program.

In fact, the question of whether or not exercise has an anti-depressive, calming effect may depend on the setting and the circumstances. At the very least, physical activity can provide valuable “time out” during which the normal stresses of the day will cease. It can also enhance this time out by enabling people to enjoy positive soothing experiences such as music, nature, the weather, or good conversation – which may be as beneficial as the exercise itself.

Exercise can have the benefit of making people feel they are doing something positive for their health – that they are taking charge. This alone can be useful in stress reduction and for psychological well being in general. Moreover, there is evidence that aerobic and interval training may be of value in reducing the physiological effects of stress.

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