Motivation is key and fundamental to your exercise adherence. The environment in which you train must be one that assists you to stay upbeat, in tempo and interested. This is after all how you will be spending (hopefully) at least 3-4 hours per week. Many studies are being conducted on the benefits of listening to music while exercising. Results have been astonishing. Studies conducted by Ohio State University found that exercising to music increased brain power, brain function and verbal fluency through the positive stimulation of the nervous system. They also determined that when there was no music present, there was no change in verbal ability or brain function. Most sport psychologists have also noted improved performance and adherence rates during training and competition. Other studies have found an increase of respiration, higher exercise heart rate levels and greater exercise potential. People affected by neuromuscular disorders while listening to faster temp music will also benefit through enhancing gross motor skills like walking and facilitating the rehabilitation process. In addition, playing slower more relaxing music has proven to reduce stress, relax and aid recovery and meditative techniques. The most popular forms of entertainment while exercising include music and television. Most health clubs these days even have cardio theatre which integrates audio visual TV and music videos with personalized headsets for members to enjoy their favourite show or music channel of choice. For those whose health clubs do not, the next most popular choice is a personalized music set either a walkman, Discman or MP3 player. Be more aware of the background music playing in your health club while training. Music should be more upbeat, with a faster tempo to increase exercise performance and maximise energy expenditure. Slower, more relaxing music, such as natural landscapes decreases one's fitness potential capacity, which in turn will facilitate cool down activities and mind body exercises like stretching, Yoga and Pilates. All in all, there is definite evidence that listening to music enhances exercise performance, allowing for faster achievement of your exercise and fitness goals, improved adherence to exercise, relaxation and a general improvement in physical and mental wellbeing. It's all good. So next time your about to hit the gym, take your trusty iPod and enjoy the benefits of improved exercise performance, higher arousal and greater inspiration to go that extra 10 minutes or get your heart rate up that extra 10 beats per minute. Want to learn more?
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Yours in Health, Daniel. |
