One of the most important things any of us can do during uneasy times (hello 2020 Pandemic) is to find ways to manage stress. And even though the causes and how we respond to stress vary, it’s clear that many of us are dealing with stress overload right now and pushing our bodies beyond what it can handle day to day. 

Keeping your stress levels under control can improve your mood, boost immune function and promote longevity. How much stress you have in your life and how you manage it is a powerful indicator of your overall well-being.

Guess what’s an effective way to manage some of the stress you are experiencing? Exercise. 

Any form of exercise can relieve stress. Read that again. ANY FORM OF EXERCISE CAN REDUCE STRESS. Being active boosts your feel-good endorphins and can distract you from your daily worries. And a recent study found “that people who managed to remain physically active during the beginning of the quarantine were less depressed and more mentally resilient than other people whose activity levels declined.”

You need to make a commitment to be active. It doesn’t have to mean you need to take on a full marathon or become a powerlifter – if that’s not your style. It can be as simple as going for a walk or gardening.  Your definition of being active depends on your goals. I am constantly reminding my personal training clients about their goals. For most of them, the goal is to live better and age well. It’s not focused on creating six pack abs or bulging biceps.

The important take-away: No matter what your long term fitness goals are, every one starts with being active.