United States – The team of Dr. Sibold of the University of Vermont showed that physical activity for twenty minutes would allow to counter the effects of stress on mood for at least twelve hours.

The test was conducted with forty-eight participants, divided into two groups. The first group was subjected to a session of twenty minutes of exercise on bicycle with moderate intensity. The second group received twenty minutes of relaxation. Before the meeting, then six times in twenty-four hours after the activity, each participant had to complete a psychological test to assess their mood.

Whatever the age and level of training of participants, the positive effects of exercise session on mood is still being felt after twelve hours. The group subjected to exercise had better results than the group receiving relaxation.

Studies have already demonstrated in the past that the exercise had antidepressant effects, but do not measure time. For Dr. Sibold, a few minutes of exercise a day is more than enough. He added: “It is an accessible and cheap to combat depression”. The endorphins released during the sport would be the cause of this state of well-being persistent.

Health benefits of Exercise: