Exercise Keeps You Happy
It’s true! Exercise gives you endorphins that stimulate a positive mood, reduce stress, reduce pain, discomfort, and more. Think about the last time you had a great workout. You probably were a bit exhausted, and sweaty and your muscles pushed to their limit at the end of the exercise. You might become aware of a “Relaxed” sensation that happened when you’ve finished exercising or shortly after. It’s that “feel good” feeling or also known as “runner’s high”.
What is causing that feeling, is endorphins at work. Endorphins are neurotransmitters that are released by the brain to alleviate pain and promote pleasure. Some say exercise-related endorphins are kin to the pleasure you get from savoring a piece of chocolate. Of course, chocolate comes with calories and exercise has a longer-lasting effect. The level of endorphins in the human body varies from person to person. An example is a person who has an exercise routine established; they have been receiving a regular dose of endorphin and the benefits of a well-being sensation. Whereas a person starting a new exercise may have a low endorphin level and will gradually feel the benefits the more they exercise. Looking at lower levels of endorphins may put you at an increased risk of health issues such as aches, pain, depression, and mood swings. The effect of low-level endorphins in people continues to be reviewed. When you increase your heart rate, it increases the release of endorphins.
At the Y we provide a wide range of opportunities throughout the building. Get a good workout in the strength and conditioning gym, steel works gym, gymnasium, pools, group exercise programs, and social activities. Come increase your “happy” endorphins as well as your overall well-being.