Over the past few years in the UK we have seen a sharp rise in all negative symptoms linked to mental health. Cases of anxiety, depression and suicides have dramatically increased and unfortunately COVID has intensified these conditions considerably.

Something that is not talked about enough is the positive effects training, in all its forms, can have in promoting mental well-being and all-round health.

As we know improving your fitness, strength and body composition will have many benefits on health markers in the body such as the following:

• Decreased resting heart rate
• Improved circulation
• Reduce risk of diseases such as heart disease and diabetes
• Increased bone density levels
• Improved cholesterol levels
• Reduced inflammation

However, something that is not often explored is the positive impact training will have on someone’s emotional health. Training brings community, routine, accountability, positivity, and a sense of achievement into people’s lives. This is something in my opinion that has been severely lacking over the last two years.

Exercise also has a huge impact on increasing our feel-good happy hormones. Oxytocin levels (known as the love hormone) are increased and most importantly the huge chemical endorphin rush we get from training will have a positive effect on promoting dopamine and serotonin production. Dopamine and serotonin are neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) that motivate us, help us focus and heighten feelings of happiness. Those suffering with depression like symptoms typically have low levels of these hormones and therefore medication is often prescribed to alleviate symptoms.

Although you should always follow what your medical practitioner advises, there are many natural remedies that can be added to help improve your health and mental well-being. I’ve found that an increase in activity will always have a positive effect on promoting the right mindset and positivity in the day-to-day lives of my clients. This may be something as simple as introducing a daily walk-in nature, riding a bike with friends, or walking the dog.

If you would like any further information on ways to increase your health and tips to improve your daily habits, please feel free to contact us at COACH LONDON, St. James’s / Mayfair. Look out for my next article where I will discuss ways to increase our ‘Health Bank Account’.

Written by Mark Roper, Principal Coach – COACH LONDON