Boosting Your Mental Wellness: The Surprising Power of Strength Training

Fun fact: Physical activity is 1.5x more effective than counseling or the leading medication for managing depression.

A new study found physical activity is extremely beneficial  for improving symptoms of depression, anxiety and distress; with the largest benefits coming from people with depression, pregnant and postpartum women, healthy individuals and people diagnosed with HIV or kidney disease.

According to the world health organization, 1 in every 8 people worldwide live with a mental disorder (approx. 970 million people) and is costing the world economy approximately $2.5 trillion each year and is projected to rise to $6 trillion by 2030. 

All types of physical activity and exercise were beneficial such as strength training, walking Pilates, and yoga to name a few. Higher intensity exercise had greater improvements for depression and anxiety, while longer durations had smaller effects when compared to short and mid-duration bursts. Put simply, the effects of exercise were proportional to the intensity prescribed, with strength training and yoga appearing to be the most acceptable modalities.

To conclude, strength training will benefit more than just our bodies, but our minds and souls as well!