One of the fabulous ironies of physical exercise is its mental health benefits.

While the majority of fitness research focuses on the physical benefits of exercise, a growing body of evidence demonstrates that physical activity also promotes improved mental health.

How does exercise help?

One theory is that exercise triggers the production of endorphins, which are naturally occurring opiates. Endorphins act in a similar way to morphine and provide natural pain relief.

Exercise also increases levels of serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine in the body. These three chemicals have been associated with elevated mood, and are boosted through exercise in a similar way to taking antidepressant medications, such as Prozac.

Indeed, research by Duke University of people suffering from depression found that 60% of the participants who exercised, for 30 minutes three times a week, overcame their depression without using antidepressant medication. This rate of success was equal to those who used only medication in their treatment.

The bottom line is that most of us feel good after exercise. This is not only due to an increase in natural chemicals, but also the sense of achievement and social connections that exercise can create. Exercise should also be viewed as a preventative activity that inhibits adverse physical and mental conditions.