Written by “Cycling gave me something to live for, no doubt about it.” – Justin Lang
Australia is a country that loves its sports, but unfortunately for most people, once they’re out of school they begin to lessen their active involvement. We all know the physical benefits of sport but the benefits to mental health are equally important.
Because the culture in a sporting organization or team is one that inherently promotes good health, being involved engenders a positive regard for health and fitness. Team sport promotes leadership skills, stress management strategies, and coping skills that help us deal with life’s setbacks. The social aspect of being a part of something is an important component in our wellbeing as well, human connection is vital to maintain psychological stability and in developing tolerance and acceptance of others.
Regular exercise is a powerful tonic for many mental health challenges because of the enormous sense of wellbeing experienced. Generally, active participation in sport results in more energy during the day and promotes a better night’s sleep. This then generates self-awareness and positivity and therefore more contentment with life in general. It has also been found to have a profoundly positive impact on depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Most importantly, there is no need to be excessively skilled at the sport to reap the benefits and get more joy and fulfillment out of life.
Avid amateur cyclist, active member of the ‘Fatboys cycling group’, and ‘middle-aged man in lycra’ (MAMIL), Justin Lang openly credits cycling with having saved his life. Lang separated from his wife a few years ago and found life very difficult for quite some time, even considering now and again that he may not ‘make it’. When he joined the cycling club, he realised that he had events coming up that he needed to be present for, people that wanted him and needed him to be there, these things gave him a reason to get out of bed and keep going each day.
Obviously, Lang responded physically to the intense training, but it was the gradual improvement in his mental health that gave him the most satisfaction.
“There’s also strong peace of mind when you go out on your bike with people you ride with regularly, especially when they’re excellent cyclists, it’s an easier ride. You’re not on edge, waiting for something to happen, you’re just out there riding and enjoying the day – the friendly banter, the feel-good endorphins, feeling totally alive – there’s nothing quite like it.”
Research has proven that partaking in sport is as effective in the treatment of mild to moderate depression as antidepressant medication is and is equally effective in dealing with anxiety and panic disorders. Exercise counters depression by promoting healthy activity in the brain, such as neural growth, reduced inflammation, and new activity patterns that promote feelings of calm and well-being. The endorphin release energizes the psyche and encourages ‘good’ feelings. Finally, being engaged in exercise particularly in a social setting serves as a distraction, allowing time to break out of the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression.
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/personal-best/pillar/wellbeing/that_changed-my-life-cycling