Physical Activity and Mental Health

Abstract

Regular participation in physical exercise has been associated with a diverse number of physical health benefits. Those who are physically active might, however, also experience a variety of positive psychological consequences. Physical activity has been associated with reductions in both depressive symptoms and anxiety. The adoption of a physically active lifestyle is often accompanied by an improvement in selfesteem. Despite these benefits, exercise intervention programs are seldom successful in achieving long-term compliance. Issues relating to compliance optimization are discussed.