How Much Exercise Does it Take?

When you want to use exercise to help improve your mood, invest the right amount of time to reap the results. 

Exercise reduces the likelihood of depression and maintains mental health as we age. 

“OK, I’m in. But how much exercise?” Studies show that three or more sessions per week of aerobic exercise or resistance training, for 45 to 60 minutes per session, can help treat even chronic depression. Effects tend to be noticed after about four weeks and training should be continued for 10-12 weeks for the greatest anti-depressant effect.  

Check out these resources to get started:

Exercise at Home to Relieve Stress & Sleep Better

YMCA free workouts

Apps to try:

• Women’s Health app

• Men’s Health app

• My Fitness Pal app

Virtual runs

Active & Fit Direct: Membership to 10,000+ fitness centers nationwide. Due to current closures of many fitness facilities, Active & Fit is offering a waived enrollment fee so you can stay active at home with more than 800 on-demand fitness videos. Registration code for first time users: GEAPP. Log in, then go to search. Select “Active & Fit Direct.” Once there, jot down the special code for the waived enrollment fee.

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