​Why exercise makes you feel good?

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There is nothing better than a great workout.  Better yet one that really sucks.  By the end of it all your happy to still be alive and proud of the suck you just accomplished.

There was a study done from ACSM showing that 6 weeks of cardio or weight training decreased stress and irritability in women diagnosed with anxiety.  Just walking 20 minutes per day can dramatically change our mental status. Exercising 40 minutes 3-5 days per week can guarantee you the will feel the “Happy” mood benefit. 

Just three Happy Chemicals that are released are as follows:

Endorphin's are released by pituitary gland the job of endorphin's to decrease stress and pain during exercise.  A euphoric feeling is felt post exercise as well as decreased appetite and improved immunity.

Serotonin is also released.  This natural mood enhancer is released decreasing symptoms of depression.  By really serotonin we also decrease our risk of heart disease. 

Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor is also released.  The neurotransmitter to also decrease depression.  BDNF is responsible for brain health and memory.

All and all we can experience increased self-esteem, better mood, and improved memory and mental functioning.  So, whether you walk, lift weights or run up Flag Road 3 times you can always count on feeling good…once it’s done.

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