Exercise Improves Body Image for Fit and Unfit

A recent University of Florida study finds that Exercise Improves Body Image For Fit And Unfit Alike. According to the study, the simple act of exercise, and not fitness itself can convince you that you look better.

People who don't achieve workout milestones such as losing fat, gaining strength or boosting cardiovascular fitness feel just as good about their bodies as their more athletic counterparts, said Heather Hausenblas, a UF exercise psychologist. Her study is published in the September issue of the Journal of Health Psychology.

"You would think that if you become more fit that you would experience greater improvements in terms of body image, but that's not what we found," she said. "It may be that the requirements to receive the psychological benefits of exercise, including those relating to body image, differ substantially from the physical benefits."

Negative body image has grown in the past 20 years, with as many as 60% of adults saying they don't like the way their bodies look. Body dissatisfaction is a huge problem in our society & unfortunately, people look to the quick fix to improve body size & shape.

While the frequency of exercise mattered for boosting body perceptions, there were no differences for the duration, intensity, length or type of exercise, the study found.

Bottom line, if you’re one of the 60% of adults who is dissatisfied with their body image, it’s a no brainer. Exercise makes you feel good and improves your body image. If you’re one of many people who dislikes exercise and comes up with excuses why you can’t exercise, dig deep down inside yourself and ask why. If you’re really struggling with getting yourself to exercise, I highly recommend self hypnosis to help you. Try “I Love To Exercise” self hypnosis.

Source: University of Florida (2009, October 9). Exercise Improves Body Image For Fit And Unfit Alike. ScienceDaily. Retrieved November 1, 2009, from http://www.sciencedaily.com­ /releases/2009/10/091008123235.htm