One of the most interesting effects of physical activity is one related to the connection between physical activity and the mind.
The human mind, as defined by the Psychological dictionary is “the centre of thought, emotion, and behaviour, mediating both consciously and unconsciously the body’s responses to social and physical environment.” The fact that each of these elements are in constant interaction with each other, means that we have the option of consciously letting these things control our lives and decisions, or to learn and understand their function.
Sport has the faculty of becoming a centre where the mind can develop, grow, and expand in a healthy and safe manner. In this way, athletes who develop an understanding of sport and their own emotions within this space, will tend to have healthier, happy lives.
Contrary to what is commonly believed, testosterone is positively related to behavioural control. In fact, developing testosterone through physical activity promotes emotional benefits and decreases the chance of aggressive behaviour. Reviews conducted in Psychology have suggested that testosterone is involved in aggressive behaviour as a regulator. It helps the body respond in an adaptive way to external stimuli such as an immediate threat or, a medium to long term socio-economic and decision making tasks, like starting an Ironman training plan. Put simply, by having this hormone present in your body in a controlled manner, you are more likely to choose more wisely when choosing your path in sport and life.
When talking about athletes, it has been proven that having progressive resistance training has a positive effect on the development of testosterone and serotonin. Studies have shown that by having a well developed progressive resistance training program, people from different backgrounds developed an increased release of growth hormone, serotonin (both directly related) and testosterone. If we consider the previously mentioned study with this one, it can be concluded that by following a safe and professionally developed plan, aggressiveness will lower, and it will also help in the increase of mental wellbeing and healthy social relationships.
Sport is present in our lives not only as a way of keeping our bodies healthy but also as a way of adapting to our everyday challenges. Each of us face challenges on a daily basis, from wanting to run faster to economic challenges such as keeping a budget or organising our daily routines. Physical activity is present in almost every action we perform in our lives. By keeping a consistent routine and adding a well-developed training program, the chances of us choosing what is best for our lives, performing correctly our daily tasks and sustaining positive social interactions are much higher.
Staying active not only means staying fit, it means adding quality of life to every aspect of our lives.