What does the research show?
Moderate exercise is recommended to everyone for health and longevity – there’s no debate about that. And American adults are woefully underperforming in the simple task of getting off the couch and getting outside. More than 50% of us fail to meet the most basic exercise recommendations.
As of 2008, these general guidelines were as follows: 30 minutes daily of exercise at a moderate intensity—a brisk walk, dancing, even gardening can be included, so it shouldn’t be as hard as it seems.
Moreover, in relation to mental illness, the benefits are clear. Many experts now recommend that a simple exercise routine should be a first-line treatment for all mild to moderate depression. Considering that people suffering from bipolar often have physical comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes and more, it should be clear that getting more exercise is an important form of health self-care.
For a review of studies related to exercise and mood, please see the following MoodSurfing posts: