according to A study conducted by Yale University and published in Lancelet PsychiatryThe side effects of too much exercise can worsen mental health. This study covered approximately 1.2 million individuals in the United States from 2011-2015. Exercise is known to help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other physical ailments. This study demonstrated that it also affects mental health across a large population sample.
Key findings of the study: Side effects of too much exercise
According to the study, the effect of exercise on mental health is usually positive, resulting in a lower mental health burden of all types of exercise compared to no exercise. The most significant benefits were seen in team sports, cycling, aerobics and athletic activities. The best duration of activity was 45 minutes, three to five times a week.
Exercising more than 23 times a month or for more than 90 minutes indicates obsessive behavior and is harmful to mental health. But is too much exercise really that bad?
Excessive exercise means exercising without taking a break, for a long time, and being addicted to exercise. It can be compared to working addiction or taking any positive habit and becoming obsessed with it. The study stated that exercising more than five times a week at regular intervals can reduce the positive returns one might get from mental health. On the other hand, exercising less than three times will have the same effect. Exercising between 120 minutes to 360 minutes a week is the ideal point or golden mean to stay on top of your mental health.
Read more: 9 ways to calm yourself down with anxiety-reducing exercises
How can I develop the habit of exercising regularly?
After reading about different types of exercise and how they can benefit you, and the side effects of a lot of exercise, you may be wondering how to develop a habit for itself. If so, then you are on the right track. Exercise is one of the most beneficial activities for physical and mental health, and it leads to a better mood once you get used to the activity. To develop the habit of exercising regularly, you can start slowly and set a goal of exercising for 10-15 minutes per day. The only thing to remember is consistency and showing up daily. For this purpose, you can talk to a friend or family member to be a partner in accountability.
Read more: What type of exercise is best for mental health?
conclusion
The results of the Yale University study show that the side effects of excessive exercise can worsen mental health. However, regular exercise positively affects your physical and psychological health in all types of exercise. The most effective forms of exercise include team sports, cycling, aerobic exercise, and aerobic activities. Other forms of physical activity include yoga, gymnastics, and running.
What type of exercise and how long it works best for you depends on your social circle, habits, lifestyle, and what works best for your body. And you can consult a doctor for the same. However, sleep and nutrition are closely related to exercise and are also important for physical and mental health. Keeping your body healthy automatically strengthens your immune system, enabling you to live longer, healthier and likely happier. On that note, here is an article that explains Five simple ways to keep your immune system healthy.
participation in Your mental health For more information, tips, and insights related to mental health.
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