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Jezelle and Kimberly will discuss the basics of physical activity then we will cover the significance in group physical activity and its efficacy.
Physical Activity
Jezelle Mae Sipagan & Kimberly Jane Paclibar
Physical activity (PA) is vital to our mental health because it has supported positive results in reducing mental health symptoms. Physical activity is also great in preventing the beginning and progression of physical ailments that may cause mental health problems later in life.
What is physical activity (PA)?
Physical activity is any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that require energy expenditure.
What are the recommended guidelines for effective PA?
According to the CDC, the baseline requirements for effective PA are
- at least 150 min per week of moderate activity
- 2 days of muscle strengthening
OR
- at least 75 min per week of vigorous activity
- 2 days of muscle strengthening
What are the benefits?
Physical activity helps improve both mental and physical health. Some of these benefits include:
- reduced symptoms associated with depression and anxiety
- improved quality of life
- decreased mental health problems associated with physical illness
- decreased progression of psychological and physiological ailments
How do we jumpstart our journey?
Research shows that benefits from PA are most effective when done during leisure time (Jussila et al., 2023). It also most effective to do physical activity that is enjoyable to enhance motivation of wanting to be active. Lastly, people may be more motivated to be active when participating in group activities. It's a great way to be social and active with the people you enjoy being around!
Group Fitness
College students' mental and emotional well-being could be enhanced by exercising with others. When exercising with others, endorphin levels may increase, as well as your motivation and the ability to socially interact with others.
Read more to find several advantages of attending group exercising classes.
Do you need a break from studying?
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas Recreation Center offers a wide range of group fitness classes for all college students enrolled during the semester, such as Ashtanga yoga, boxing and strength training. Consider taking a class of your choice.
References
Graupensperger, S., Gottschall, J. S., Benson, A. J., Eys, M., Hastings, B., & Evans, M. B. (2019). Perceptions of Groupness During Fitness Classes Positively Predict Recalled Perceptions of Exertion, Enjoyment, and Affective Valence: An Intensive Longitudinal Investigation. Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology, 8(3), 290–304. https://doi.org/10.1037/spy000015
Jussila, J. J., Pulakka, A., Ervasti, J., Halonen, J. I., Mikkonen, S., Allaouat, S., Salo, P., & Lanki, T. (2023). Associations of leisure‐time physical activity and active school transport with mental health outcomes: A population‐based study. 33(5), 670–681. https://doi.org/10.1111/sms.14292
Steinhilber, B. (2017, November 1). The health benefits of working out with a crowd. NBC News. Retrieved December 2, 2023, from https://www.nbcnews.com/better/health/why-you-should-work-out-crowd-ncna798936