Exercise May Help Lower Risk of Depression
We all have a day now and then when we feel a little down in the dumps. That’s perfectly normal. But if those feelings start interfering with your daily life and your ability to function productively, there may be cause for concern.
According to Beyond Blue1, depression is more common in women than in men, with 1 in 6 Australian women expected to suffer from depression in their lifetime. The reasons for this still aren’t clear, but it does raise a red flag cautioning us to listen to our bodies and take action to guard against or fight depression. Inactivity can, of course, result in obesity, while prolonged or frequent social isolation provides a ripe environment for the development of mental health problems, including anxiety and depression. One of the best ways to help combat obesity and boost emotional wellness is with a regular exercise routine like Curves and MyCurves On Demand. As you move through the circuit and specialty classes, you’ll engage in a full body workout with the social support of women working towards similar goals. Plus, a regular workout plan provides natural stress relief and supports weight loss, both of which are great for physical and mental health.
Depression and obesity
You may not be surprised to hear that researchers have discovered that depression and obesity often go hand-in-hand. A 2010 study reported by the U.S. National Centre for Health Statistics2 found that 43 percent of depressed adults were also obese. Although we don’t know the cause for this correlation, experts believe the relationship is very complex. One theory is that modern lifestyles have hijacked our previous tendency to remain active. Television and the internet now occupy much of our time, and unfortunately, perpetuate a sedentary and socially isolated lifestyle in place of regular exercise.
The good news about depression
Fortunately, depression can be treated. Along with medication and psychotherapy, an exercise routine can be a critical part of this prescription. Not only does a whole body workout like the Curves workout burn calories, which helps you to lose weight, it is an excellent form of natural stress relief (stress is also associated with depression). And if that’s not enough to get you up and moving, exercise and mental health are connected in other ways, too, and the results of a regular workout plan make us feel better about ourselves and boost our self-esteem.
Curves is an excellent way to help combat depression
The culture of Curves provides more than just a way for women to burn kilojoules, receive weight loss encouragement, and get advice on a healthy eating plan. It’s supportive, interactive environment allows members to relax and be part of a community that fosters natural stress relief and sisterhood. By design, the circuit format of the full body workout at Curves encourages interaction in an upbeat and positive way. Curves ladies only gym is a place where members get healthy and stay healthy, both physically and emotionally. With Curves dual membership, you can also get your Curves Coach’s help in-club or virtually. All are real, live Curves Coaches—no automated support at Curves. If you choose to participate in MyCurves On Demand + Group Coaching online, you’ll attend video chats with other Curves members offering community and support, with a Curves Coach to help guide and keep you accountable.
To find out more about how you can informed lifestyle and health choices, visit our blog under the ‘Live’ category! You can also learn more about how the Curves Circuit can benefit your lifestyle here.
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