Lifting vs Depression

There’s evidence that exercise, specifically resistance training, can help in even the most severe cases. Resistance training improves mood in the short term – both during and after a workout. That mood improvement – through the release of epinephrine, norepinephrine, and feel-good hormones such as dopamine – boosts energy, optimism, and vitality. Regular resistance training also affects sex hormones such as testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone – optimizing them for surviving and thriving.

For those prone to anxiety, lifting provides a way to “aim” that energy at an activity that quite literally fatigues the neuromuscular system – a perfect recipe to lose the anxious edge and feel more at ease. The biggest thing to be cautious of when lifting in an anxious state is overtraining.

For those struggling with a bout of depression, the excitation of the load against your body will prime epinephrine release – potentially ripping you out of the fog and slog you find yourself in. Also, the dopamine, testosterone, and even the increase in cortisol levels after lifting can contribute to a more energetic and optimistic state of being.

In a depressed state, the hardest part will be STARTING. Once the intensity triggers the biochemical releases within the body, there’s a higher probability of a great exercise session.

A lot of people are better able to manage their cycles of anxiety and depression via exercise. This is true whether or not they use medication. Individuals who engage in resistance training appear to have even greater benefits than those who engage primarily in cardiovascular training. Both, though, are essential to a healthy exercise lifestyle.