Lift Heavy When You’re Angry: Match Your Workout To Your Mood

Lift Heavy When You’re Angry: Match Your Workout To Your Mood

Being in a bad mood can make you want to skip your workout, but sometimes a change of plans is all that’s needed. Here’s how to take advantage of the mood you’re in to make the most of your workout.

Photo by Tambako the Jaguar

Intense moods mean hormones are circulating that have an effect on both your mind and body. Try these recommendations from Men’s Health to use those hormones to your advantage instead of letting them be a distraction.

  • If you’re angry, you’re probably experiencing an adrenaline spike you can put to good use in the gym. Limit your workout to a few big lifts, like squats or deadlifts, and use that extra strength and focus to take on more weight or more sets than usual.
  • If you’re happy, that’s a different kind of energy to take advantage of. Now is a good time to take on a fun but difficult challenge, like single-leg exercises that require more attention than usual to balance and coordination.
  • If you’re sad, it will be hard to stay motivated, so promise yourself you only have to last through a 15-minute warmup. Afterward, you may feel good enough to finish your usual workout, but you also have the option of going home guilt-free.

Another trick I use on depressing days is to swap the day’s workout for something I really love — maybe I’m scheduled for a gym workout but I’m itching to go on a trail run. Read the full article at Men’s Health for more mood-matched workouts.

Find the Right Workout for Your Mood [Men’s Health]


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