aerobic exercise

People who are physically active tend to be less depressed than those who live a more sedentary lifestyle. Regular physical activity seems to have antidepressant qualities that can help increase endorphins, the feel good hormone. Not only does exercise induce endorphins, it helps creates neural growth in the brain which is important in a depressed brain that is depleted of neurons.

Our bodies are complex but very efficient machines.  In a recent article in Healthology it has been described as 3 engines.  The first one providing us with bursts of energy we need for weight training.  This engine runs on protein and does not require oxygen, and therefore is anaerobic. The second one is for half marathons and runs on glucose and also does not require oxygen and therefore is also anaerobic.  The third engine is for running long distances and runs on carbohydrate glycogen and requires oxygen to produce energy; therefore, it is aerobic.