Working with weights and weight-bearing exercise build muscle and help prevent disease. Additionally, working with weights and weight-bearing exercise such as walking or running help combat the stress we experience daily.
Focus
Weight training exercise requires focus. You must focus on your form and doing the moves correctly. When you are focused on your weights and form, you are unable to think about the stress and anxiety in your life.
Endorphins
Weight training exercise increases the production of endorphins. Endorphins are the neurotransmitters that are produced in the brain and make your body feel good. An hour of weight training, a long run or an active tennis game can release these endorphins and improve your overall mood.
Shaping Up
Weight lifting is a great antidote to feeling tired and dragging yourself around. When your muscles are not well toned, all of your daily activities become harder to perform. When muscles are toned, carrying groceries, housework, yard work and all forms of carrying and lifting feel less stressful.
Mood
By committing to a regular routine of weight lifting, you can lower the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Some studies have shown that exercise can have as beneficial an effect on stress reduction as antidepressant medication. As you get stronger, some of the aches and pains you have had may begin to dissipate. Balance will improve and the risk of osteoporosis is lowered.
Confidence
When you are confident in what you are doing, you tend to experience less stress. Committing to a regular weight lifting routine will give you a sense of achievement that will in turn increase your self-confidence and sense of self-worth, thus reducing your stress levels.
