Physical activity not only has positive effects on the body, but is also very beneficial for psychological functioning.
There are many studies that show a clear link between exercise and psychological changes such as anxiety or depression.
All people who engage in physical activity often reap benefits directly in their psychological functioning. The main ones are:
Increased activity
The first psychological benefit of athletics is obvious. Practicing this sport significantly increases activity.
The brain requires a certain level of physical activity to function properly. Otherwise, you can easily experience emotional changes and moods.
Increase in self-confidence
Sport is one of the main activities that allows you to build self-confidence. The practice of athletics allows a person to realize their strengths and increase self-confidence.
Promotes emotional stability
One of the hypotheses about the psychological effects of physical activity is that it changes the functioning of certain neurotransmitters.
In particular, it seems to have a direct effect on monoamines such as serotonin or dopamine, which allows for the regulation of brain function and contributes to a person’s emotional stability.
Promoting independence
Practicing physical activity in childhood has great educational and social benefits.
In particular, athletics has been shown to be an important factor in the moral development, acquisition of values, and promotion of independence in children.
Benefits of mood
Mood is one of the psychological components that can benefit the most from playing sports.
Performing this sport immediately leads to a greater release of serotonin and endorphins. These two substances are directly related to the state of mind. That is, the more in the brain, the better state of mind you have.
Increase positive body image
Athletics has a direct impact on body shape by reducing body fat and strengthening body muscles.
However, its impact on body image is not limited to gaining a leaner or more athletic body.
Athletics contributes to a positive body image by sending direct inputs to the proper functioning of the body and the personal ability to perform and improve.
Maintains self-control
Sport is also an important source of emotional release and behavioral regulation. The practice of athletics increases personal self-control and emotional focus.
Increased sexual satisfaction
The data relating athletics to sexual satisfaction is somewhat more controversial than others.
However, a recent national study found that people who practiced physical activity had significantly higher rates of sexual satisfaction.
Reduces emotional stress.
There is evidence of the effect of exercise on symptomatic stress reduction at the physiological and psychological levels. In this sense, its effects are comparable to those of relaxation, for example, in terms of reducing the reactivity of the cardiovascular system to stress.