We all know the many physical benefits of exercise: weight control, lower blood pressure, reduced risk of diabetes, and increased energy, and a lot more. But what about the mental and psychological benefits of exercise? From easing symptoms of depression and anxiety to keeping your memory sharp, there’s no shortage of mental benefits of exercise.
The Dubai-based activewear brand Gym Clothing Co. has launched a new social media campaign about the importance of exercise for building resilience and improving mental health. The two-minute campaign video features Gym Clothing Co. director, fitness enthusiast, and entrepreneur Kelly Hodgkin enjoying individual and group sports, including strength training, running, tennis, netball, and boxing, while talking about how crucial exercise is for her well-being and performance.
Kelly explains, “I wouldn’t have the energy and motivation to push through personal or professional barriers without making exercise a daily habit. The physical boost is one thing, but it’s more about the psychological effects of working out to keep me balanced and focused. Sport is also a great way to meet people. When we’re feeling low, being part of a team is one of the best ways to stay connected and help each other overcome the struggles we all face. This is one of the main reasons I wanted to develop the campaign with Gym Clothing Co. talking about bringing people together through sport.”
Diana Nahas, a counsellor at the German Neuroscience Center agrees that exercise positively impacts our brains and bodies. “Research shows that exercise improves our mood, reducing anxiety, stress, and depression. It also increases self-esteem and cognitive abilities, such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving. Exercise stimulates the secretion of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, which is why we feel so good after a sports session. And you don’t have to be a top athlete to notice the benefits! Daily sessions of moderate to high-intensity physical exercise lasting 15 to 30 minutes are sufficient to provide a mood-boosting effect.”
The new campaign follows the brand’s recent real women model search. Just Be – Be Bold, Be Beautiful, Be You celebrated six ladies who all had different stories to tell about self-confidence and the changing relationships with their bodies.
Led by three fitness-loving expats, Gym Clothing Co. is available online at gymclothingco.com for delivery across the UAE and UK.