How exercise can improve both physical and mental wellness

By Marie Haaland

NEWS COPY W/ VIDEO + INFOGRAPHIC

Feeling blue lately? New research shows people who set aside time to exercise are actually happier than those who don’t.

Not only are they happier (75% vs. 25%), but they also report being more successful (74% vs. 26%), as revealed by the survey of 2,000 Americans who exercise at least once a week.

Respondents were split by those who exercise one to three times per week and those who exercise four to seven times per week — and the results revealed some interesting differences.

The survey, conducted by OnePoll and commissioned by OXIGEN, pH balanced water with electrolytes and boosted with oxygen, found those who exercise more often were also more likely to identify as ambitious (74% vs. 26%).

COVID-19 has affected many aspects of Americans’ lives, including their workout habits and many admit to exercising even more now than they did before the pandemic started.

In March, 47% of those surveyed said they spend more time exercising now than they did two years ago, and the pandemic has caused 64% of respondents to further increase the amount of time they spend exercising, perhaps looking for a boost in happiness.

Pre-COVID, 78% of those surveyed admitted feeling less accomplished if they missed their workout.

The average workout session for respondents lasted 45 minutes and most often took place on their own (42%) in the gym (38%) — and respondents were most likely to exercise in the morning (33%).

Of those, 64% prefer exercising early as it prepares them for their day, while 63% said they feel more energized for work after a morning workout and 47% say it puts them in a better headspace.

After getting in a good workout, half of respondents follow a post-workout routine — and 75% say they make ongoing lifestyle choices to allow them to exercise regularly.

Of those with a routine, it lasted an average of 26 minutes and is most likely consisted of stretching (48%), drinking water (46%) and doing cool-down exercises (42%).

“At a time when access to gyms and in-person fitness classes has become limited, exercise continues to be of paramount importance in most people’s daily routine, and these results affirm that it really can improve their overall mood and set them up for success on a daily basis,” said OXIGEN VP of Marketing, Joen Choe. “With demanding schedules and continued exercise comes an increased need to prioritize the body’s recovery, ensuring that consumers can maintain mental and physical strength, especially at a time when resilience and the ability to rise above is key.”

Now that some may be forced to miss their workout, they have a new kickstart for the day.

Seventy-nine percent of respondents said the pandemic has made them more aware of their overall wellness — beyond their exercise habits — and 76% are actively taking steps to improve their overall wellness.

This includes doing things like eating more healthy foods (64%), drinking more water (58%) and getting better sleep (57%) — whether that’s getting the proper amount or having a more consistent sleep schedule, according to results.

It seems to be paying off: 74% of those surveyed believe they’ll come out of the pandemic stronger than they went in.

“The survey results helped reveal a lack of understanding around the benefits of oxygenated water and its role in recovery. OXIGEN is a pH balanced water with electrolytes and boosted with oxygen that gives you more from your water,” said OXIGEN Chief Executive Officer Blair Bentham.

“The extra boost of oxygen in OXIGEN helps you recover faster — whether you have a strict workout regimen and need muscle recovery or you’re spending more time walking outdoors during this time. While Americans navigate many unknowns, OXIGEN empowers others not just to get back on their feet, but to reach a higher level by providing all-natural recovery, energy and superior hydration.”

AMERICANS’ POST-WORKOUT ROUTINE INCLUDES . . .

1. Stretching                                                                48%
2. Drinking water                                                         46%
3. Cool-down exercises                                              42%
4. Walking                                                                   40%
5. Showering                                                               37%
6. Drinking a functional recovery beverage                31%
7. Drinking an energy drink                                        28%
8. Changing clothes                                                    28%
9. Tracking their progress                                           27%
10. Having a protein shake                                           26%

WHAT ARE AMERICANS DOING TO IMPROVE THEIR WELLNESS DURING COVID-19?

1. Eating more healthy foods                                                                     64%
2. Drinking more water                                                                                   58%
3. Getting the proper amount of sleep/having a consistent sleep schedule  57%
4. Staying in touch with friends and family                                                 50%
5. Finding a new exercise routine                                                              46%
6. Learning to better manage my stress                                                         45%
7. Finding a fun, creative outlet                                                                      37%
8. Doing brainteasers (crosswords, Sudoku, etc.)                                     33%
9. Participating in continuing education classes                                        28%
10. Taking community classes/workshops                                                   24%