A 30-Minute Walk Boosts Your Mood

Taking a walk can boost your mood and feelings of well-being, even for those with major depressive disorders.

Study Shows Walking Improves Mood

A study by University of Texas researchers had people with major depressive disorders either rest quietly or walk on a treadmill for 30 minutes and tested their mood afterwards. Both groups had an improvement in mood, but those who walked on the treadmill had more positive feelings for well-being and vigor. The study was published in the December, 2005 issue of "Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise."

Moderate-Intensity Exercise vs. Runners High

The subjects exercised at an exertion of 60-70% of maximum heart rate, a nice determined to brisk walking pace. While many people experience a "runner's high" at higher heart rates and higher exertion levels, this study concentrated on moderate activity. The positive effects on mood and well-being were seen.
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Walk and Get Happy

Walking outdoors in fresh air and pleasant scenery should boost mood even more than trudging on a treadmill in the lab. If you are feeling down, let your feet do the walking to a better outlook.

• Walking for Your Mind and Spirit
  
• Treadmill Workouts
  
• Walking Workouts

_Source:

_{BARTHOLOMEW, JOHN B.; MORRISON, DAVID; CICCOLO, JOSEPH T. "Effects of Acute Exercise on Mood and Well-Being in Patients with Major Depressive Disorder." Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. 37(12):2032-2037, December 2005.}