May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental health is how we think, feel and act, and at the South Shore Y, we recognize that mental health is an important part of our overall health and social-emotional well-being, as well as a core component of our identity.
Research shows that exercise, especially strength training, can provide unique boosts to your mental well-being and benefit your mental health. Below are some of the mental health benefits that a strength training routine can provide:
- Improves your mood. When you lift weights, the brain releases neurotransmitters such as dopamine, epinephrine, and serotonin, which promote feelings of well-being and happiness, thus improving your mood.
- Reduces Stress & Anxiety. Strength training has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Studies have shown that resistance training can be as effective as medication in treating mild to moderate symptoms of depression.
- Increases Mindfulness. Strength training provides a mental break from the stresses of daily life. By focusing on lifting weights and completing exercises, individuals can take their minds off their problems, enjoy the present moment, and improve their mindfulness.
Whether you are looking to alleviate symptoms of depression or anxiety or simply want to improve your overall mood and well-being, incorporating regular strength training into your routine can have a significant impact on your mental health.
At the South Shore YMCA, our dedicated staff of personal trainers can help you find the perfect strength training routine as you work towards your health and wellness goals. To learn more about personal training, visit ssymca.org/personaltraining.
TRAIN WITH THE BEST
Our caring, certified personal training staff at the South Shore YMCA is here to provide the one-to-one attention you need to set and achieve your fitness goals.
Personal Training