People who believe that they are exercising appear to obtain more health benefits than people who perform the exact same activities but don’t believe (or don’t know) that what they’re doing is exercise, according to new research from Harvard University. This supports the theory that some of the benefits of exercise involve a “placebo effect.”
According to researchers Dr. Ellen Langer and Alia J. Crum:
“These results support the hypothesis that exercise affects health in part or in whole via the placebo effect,” Crum and Langer write. “Whether the change in physiological health was brought about directly or indirectly, it is clear that health is significantly affected by mind-set.”
Fitness experts have long stated that having a strong “mind-muscle” connection is an extremely important factor in determining the effectiveness of a workout. To get the most from any form of exercise, it’s a good idea to reinforce your beliefs that what you’re doing is good for you. Try educating yourself on the health benefits of exercise and physical activity by reading books and magazines, watching videos, doing research online, etc.
Learn more:
0 Responses to “Believe in exercise, get more benefits”