How Habitual Physical Activity Impacts Stress Appraisal, Cognitive Functioning, and Emotional Regulation in Adolescents and Adults
The term "physical activity" refers to any bodily movement that expends energy, including walking, running, swimming, biking, yoga, weightlifting, dancing, martial arts, sports, etc. Engaging in habitual physical activities can have positive impacts on stress appraisal, cognitive functioning, and emotional regulation in adolescents and adults. This study will examine how these three factors are affected by different levels of exercise intensity and duration.
Stress Appraisal
Stress is the body's response to external challenges. It involves both mental and physiological processes, such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, and hormone production. Appraising stressful situations helps individuals determine whether they pose a threat or challenge. Habitual physical activity has been shown to improve stress resilience by reducing reactivity to negative stimuli and increasing recovery time after stressors. In other words, regular exercise increases an individual's ability to recognize stressors but also decreases their psychological responses to them.
A person who exercises regularly may be less likely to become anxious when faced with a deadline than someone who does not.
Cognitive Functioning
Habitual physical activity improves brain health, leading to better cognitive functioning over time. Exercise increases blood flow and oxygenation, which promotes neural growth and connectivity. Regular exercise has been linked to improved attention span, memory retention, problem-solving abilities, and decision-making skills.
Studies show that people who engage in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) have enhanced executive functions like multitasking and creativity. HIIT consists of short bursts of intense exercise followed by periods of rest, and it can be performed at home or in gym settings.
More research is needed to understand how different types of physical activities impact specific aspects of cognition.
Emotional Regulation
Regular exercise can improve emotional regulation by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Physical activity increases endorphin production, which elevates mood and reduces feelings of stress. Engaging in regular aerobic exercise has been found to lower levels of cortisol - the "stress hormone" - in the body. Endurance training - such as running, cycling, or swimming - appears especially beneficial for those struggling with depression. Emotionally challenging tasks, such as public speaking or conflict resolution, are also easier for individuals who exercise frequently.
Habitual physical activity decreases the likelihood of developing substance use disorders, which often stem from unmanaged emotions.
Habitual physical activity positively impacts stress appraisal, cognitive functioning, and emotional regulation in adolescents and adults. Different exercises require varying intensities and durations, so individuals should choose activities they enjoy and find feasible.
Beginners may start with low-impact workouts before progressing to higher intensity ones over time. With consistent effort, the benefits of physical activity on mental health become apparent.
How does habitual physical activity impact stress appraisal, cognitive functioning, and emotional regulation in adolescents and adults?
Research has shown that habitual physical activity can have positive effects on both stress appraisal and emotional regulation in adolescents and adults. In terms of stress appraisal, regular exercise can help individuals reframe their perceptions of stressful situations, leading them to view challenges as opportunities for growth and development rather than as threats to be avoided. This can lead to increased resilience and adaptability in response to life's stresses.