Gym/Working Out

[schmok]

I'd be willing to wager that you could substitute physical activity in a natural setting (hiking, trail running, etc.) with the same if not a better effect (vs. the gym).

[nick222]

I used to love the elliptical but that was my only workout and I wanted to improve my core strength. Hired the least scary personal trainer at my gym who very quickly also became my 'therapist' and life coach. As long as I could afford it I would keep going. She built my confidence up to the point that I was succeeding in other areas of my life too.

Not to mention getting my 5k time under 20mins in a matter of weeks- and I'm saying that as someone who was never a runner.

[happyvibe]

I used to love the elliptical but that was my only workout and I wanted to improve my core strength. Hired the least scary personal trainer at my gym who very quickly also became my 'therapist' and life coach. As long as I could afford it I would keep going. She built my confidence up to the point that I was succeeding in other areas of my life too.

Not to mention getting my 5k time under 20mins in a matter of weeks- and I'm saying that as someone who was never a runner.

my trainer is my "therapist" as well! sometimes its fun to just gab in between reps! it makes the session less intimidating.  i only wish it were cheaper. congrats on your 5k!

[coffeedude22]

I agree with the working out to uplifting content. Sometimes I use free-weights to some up-tempo music or put some Buddhist meditation things on for Pilates/yoga. Being able to focus and meditate on the process of positivity while working out is almost as good as the health outcome.

[Glousck]

A combination of cardio and weight training is best for a mood boost. I've been working out for an average of 2 hours for the last six weeks and whilst my mood hasn't been non-stop euphoric, I have felt at a consistently higher baseline and stress is much more manageable. I still get a few seconds of "this is unbearable, what am I going to do" but it quickly subsides into "well how can I problem solve this to ensure this stress dissipates and the issue is resolved??". I always take Creatine before and after my workouts which has nootropic qualities, particularly noticeable when comparing my reasoning skills and memory recall before taking Creatine compared to present day.

Exercise = nature's original antidepressant, with no side effects! except maybe sore joints every now and then lol.

[Wannabenormal18]

I was so extremely hardcore about the gym from 19-33 until I had a shoulder injury and then another shoulder injury. I have had anxiety my whole life and terrible insomnia. I think the gym helped control my anxiety a bit since now that I’m out of the gym, my anxiety is crippling. During those years I learned everything about training etc. the best tip is to watch bodybuilders work out. I know some of what they do in terms of substances, isn’t for everyone but the workouts themselves should be copied. If someone is willing to take anabolics and chemicals to enhance their appearance, they are for sure going to have their workouts down to a science. You can watch videos on YouTube etc.

[inedibleflower]

It was quite the emotional rollercoaster to read about people going to the gym in this thread, while the world is mostly still in a locked-down state. Gyms in my area are slowly starting to open, but masks aren't required during workouts, so there's no way I'm going to go back to the gym anytime soon - I can't afford to get sick.

Working out from home, for me, has actually always taken more effort than packing a bag and going to the gym. The gym was a social destination, one of the few places where I felt safe to use weights and machines and treadmills without feeling anxious. At home, if there's an accident, there's no one around to help out!

I've been finding that workout apps are helpful if you have friends that are still staying home, or long-distance friends, because you can do simple walks and jogs around town and keep in touch via your walks. Sharing recipes (and pictures of successful preparations) is also a fun way of staying healthy.

Even Facetime/Google Meet is great while prepping dinner if friends are in your timezone! It can be a tradition to do that on the weekends for breakfast or brunch.

[happyvibe]

I completely agree about missing the social aspect of going to the gym. It’s not like I would chat up with anyone I just liked the fact I was around people just in case say I fainted on the treadmill. (Not like I even go fast!). My workouts at home are pretty simple even for a klutz like me. I don’t feel safe in a gym even with a mask on (the gyms where I live are closed anyway). This new normal will have to do for awhile. Even when gyms open with cold and flu season approaching fall/winter I’m not taking any chances.

[inedibleflower]

I hate going to the gym but I love doing HITT workouts at home. There are so many good videos to find and follow along with on YouTube. They don’t take up too much time either and they really get your heart rate going. Other than that I just try to walk a couple miles 4-5 days a week. I’m not in super good shape but one getting there. It’s the eating part that kills me. I love me some foods

Yes! I also love High Intensity! This also helps with the eating part, because I consider myself a foodie (I know how pretentious that sounds!) and I really enjoy cooking. But with walking, like you said, and High Intensity training, you can consume a higher amount of calories in general. The trick is to eat the right things.

Also, setting expectations for yourself is critical. While I can't speak for anyone else, I know that I'll never have ripped abs, but I know that when I really put my mind to it, I can make my shirts look so much better, so that gives me a little extra incentive!

[coffeedude22]

Every doctor I've seen and every article I've read recommends going to the gym/working out to help with depression. I understand that the physical activity will release endorphins which should help with mood. I also understand that people can get a natural high from the sense of accomplishment. I've tried going to the gym so many times and I just don't get anything from it. If anything, I'm more annoyed and just waiting until I can go home and watch tv. Does anyone else experience this?

This is the consensus in the scientific world. It does not mean it will work for you. There will always be outliers. When I was able to do a lot of physical activity, I will run (and I do get a runners high), do mountaineering activities. I never got a chance to go to the gym as they always ask me for a doctor's note and none of them will sign. As my physical problems worsen, I had to change to other activities, such as cycling (which took me two years to learn!) and is gentler on the joints. The Gym might not be for you but I do hope you find the activities you enjoy that would help with the depression.


TY Maldita. I'm sorry to hear about your troubles. I have found cycling easier on my knees, I can't run for very long. I've been looking into at home working programs on YouTube. I'm thinking maybe taking away the pressure of going to the gym and feeling like everyone is looking at me might help.

I'm the same way.  Running is always one great hour and two days of pain for my knees.  I cycle every other day and love the joy that comes with it.