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Physical activity will save you from stress
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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Moderate exercise helps people cope with anxiety and stress long after they finish exercising, according to a study by researchers at the University of Maryland.
“We know that exercise can improve our mood and well-being, but less is known about the potential impact of physical activity on our emotional well-being. Can these positive effects continue to have an impact when we are dealing with stress and anxiety on a daily basis?” said Carson Smith, lead author of the study. “We found that exercise can reduce anxiety and help us feel more relaxed, even after we have been through a lot of emotional stress. And the effects are not as short-lived as you might think. Even after you leave the gym, you may be able to better manage your emotions and cope with adversity.”
Exercise impacts brain activity, aging processes and mental health.
Scientists conducted an experiment, dividing student volunteers into two groups. One of them intensively pedaled exercise bikes for 30 minutes, while the second was in a state of absolute calm.
The experts assessed the state of anxiety before the activity and rest of both groups and after the experiment, during which the subjects were shown pleasant and unpleasant photographs.
It turned out that physical exercise and quiet rest were equally effective in reducing anxiety levels at the initial stage. However, as soon as the subjects were subjected to emotional stimulation (showing 90 photographs), which lasted for about 20 minutes, the anxiety level of those who simply rested returned to its original level, while those who worked out on exercise machines showed calmness and endurance.
The results of the study show that physical activity plays an important role in maintaining people's normal emotional state and can also be a means of reducing anxiety and worry, which are consequences of daily stressful situations.
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