Exercise is good for mind as well as body

Taking exercise is great for the soul as well as the body, according to a recent poll of fitness fans. The survey, carried out by health club Fitness First, proves the long held belief – taking exercise really does make you happy.

More than 96 per cent of those who took the survey said exercise made them happy – with almost as many feeling less stressed after a workout (94 per cent) – the perfect antidote to the stressful approach of Christmas.

“We’ve known for sometime that most of us feel good after exercising – and our findings reinforce this theory,’’ said Fitness First’s national fitness manager Derek Crawford.

“Nearly all those asked said their mood really did change for the better after a good workout, and the effects were instant.

“We’re always keen to know exactly how exercise really makes people feel and these survey results certainly give us a good indication.’’

Among the reasons given for such positive mood changes were feeling energised (45 per cent), making people feel happier with their body (18 per cent) and knowing that it is good for their health (14 per cent).

Fitness First believes that the results will inspire even more people to get fit. “Feeling energised, happier with your body and really being able to achieve something is what people want and exercise ticks all the boxes,’’ said Derek.

The survey was carried out by Fitness First to coincide with the launch of its new range of home gym equipment which is sold exclusively through Tesco.

The range includes dumbbells, pilates toning kit and a running set and has been designed specifically to help people ease their way into exercise – and hopefully inspire them to join the 7.2 million people in this country who are already gym members.

“There is so much to be gained from as little as 30 minutes of exercise. For anyone wanting an instant pick-me-up, any type of workout will leave them feeling on top of the world – and that’s official!”