The benefit of exercise that’s F-U-N
November 2, 2010
Say, hypothetically, you burn an equal number of calories taking a ballet class as you do moving furniture, then same difference, right? Add the fact that working out helps reduce the risk of depression and then it’d seem that folks whose work involves physical labour luck out big time, getting their exercise in while on the job while also being all shiny and happy and all that.
Not so much.
Research from King’s College London reveals that exercise helps cut your risk of depression by almost half, but only if the physical activity is during your leisure time. The context and social aspects of exercise seems to play a large role in its mental health benefits.
(Image: Last Minute Knitted Gifts)
Filed under: Fitness Swellness,Healthy Swellness
3 Comments Leave a Comment
1.
Janet | November 2, 2010 at 10:22 AM
That’s really interesting find, Karen. Thanks for sharing. I wonder if that also means social exercise such as sports or play is better for mental health than solo workouts such as treadmill work or jogging, even if both are done in leisure time. Did they get into that?
2.
healthandswellness | November 2, 2010 at 3:32 PM
Hi! I don’t believe the study delved into that aspect. It did get me wondering, though, as I often run outdoors alone (and don’t particularly “enjoy” it per se) in my leisure time, wonder how that factors into the mental benefits. I suppose it does indicate I should seek new form of exercise, though!
3.
Janet | November 4, 2010 at 8:51 AM
Hi Karen, thanks for looking into it. They should research that question next 🙂
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