It’s crazy to me how quickly people will jump on medication and never consider doing things like exercise, going outside, eating better, and if possible changing the people you surround yourself with.
I agree as someone who is on medication. While I did end up going on medication, fitness along with my faith got me out the deepest darkest part of the hole and medication is just stepping stone helping me to become fully functional and I don't plan on being on it forever. I will always do my best to be active physically and spiritually.
It's because a doctor doesn't make money from it. I used to have horrible headaches and was 350+lbs instead of the doc saying "hey you might feel like shit because your morbidly obese and barely exercise" instead they threw me on some drugs that caused manic episodes.
As someone who has major, debilitating depressive episodes with ending it all ideation sometimes those things are incomprehensible. I'm a lifelong athlete and former fighter. I trained upwards of 30 hours a week, but when the depressions truly began it was like a thousand-pound blanket was pinning me to my bed. Today I use a combination of low-dose meds, a 12-step program for an eating disorder, holy basil (an herb with good results in preliminary studies that doesn't have side effects like regular meds), continuing my education, and regular exercise, but it took years. I had to do some inside work to even begin to be consistent in the gym, so sometimes some of us need different starting points. Meds can, and often should, be temporary. They can be the hand that rolls back the blanket and pulls you out of bed in the morning until you're in a place where you can do it on your own. I'm on a minimum dose because they help with my night terrors. That sleep paralysis demon is a persistent mf
One categoey requires a lot more exertion over the other. People running away from pain and complete inability to contextualise pain is the problem imo.
Isn’t choosing to go to a therapist taking personal responsibility for your mental health? But that choice is good and choosing physical activity is bad?
You nailed it when you said both things can exist. Exercise is fantastic IF it is accessible to you. I recently had surgery and watched my mental health crumble while I couldn't walk for months. I think your message is correct and good and useful. However, most people do not give that suggestion in a kind and understanding way. Most people deliver this same message in a way that is very "bootstraps" and as if people can just choose not to have certain conditions. That's not your fault Zack, but that's why people react as if this information is controversial. Most often someone who binge eats as a coping mechanism for their PTSD gets insulted for their struggles and barking at them to get in the gym is not going to be received well. Telling someone with debilitating OCD to just get your ass out the door is not motivating, but it's something people say constantly as if it's just a matter of will power. On the other hand, telling someone who hasn't bathed or eaten in a week because they're too depressed to get out of bed for more than 2 minutes at a time that getting some fresh air and sunshine might help them feel better is much more likely to be taken as good and helpful advice. The science behind the advice in those scenarios is the same but we must deliver it as encouragement, not to belittle them. With compassion, not guilt. Support, not shame. ❤
Even though my Crossfitting 26 y.o. with Down Syndrome is non-verbal his entire being after a workout is ethereal. It has transformed our entire family. And if that big ole smile from him and his coaches doesn't say it all, I don't know what else would. Exercise is the fucking key to life.
I work in a school and there is this kid with diagnosed autism that became basically unmanageable when puberty hit and school work ramped up. I think he started judo recently and he's GLOWING now. Way less "episodes", way more positive energy in general.
Thank you Coach Greg for including the free sample pack in my HTLT supps purchase! I tried GO2MAX and I loved it. Haven't bought a bottle yet but definitely leaning towards it after the free sample
Let me address that first one from fata: Responds well to physical fitness? I was 320lbs, over 100lbs overweight last August. Getting up and going was taxing. My HR was mid 60s WHILE I SLEPT. Walking up a flight of stairs it could hit 130. 2. Is able bodied. I mean, i could walk but i couldnt run. Couldnt jog. Whats able bodied? Ive seen people missing 2 legs do shit I probably never will... 3. Access to parks and gyms? Well, i couldn't afford a gym. And why or how will i use a park in 15deg weather? This makes no sense. 4. Support system? Well, my family kinda fought me the whole way. I have many stories to tell about that... 5. Access to knowledge: DO YOU HAVE A PHONE? YOU HAVE ACCESS. Anyways, last year i went outside and walked on sidewalks for 1hr a day. I also kept track of my food using a free app. I lost weight and i became more able bodied. Fast forward to today: ive ridden 80miles on my road bike in the last 3 days, including 2 days over 30mi a piece. Ive lost 92lbs, on my way to losing 100+ Nothing of what she said, I had when I started. I started with a pair of shoes and the determination to not die young so i can spend my life with my wife and see my kids grow. Now my RHR is 49/50. I have the stamina of an endurance athlete. And im strength training now. All within 14 months.
I have never felt better in my entire life mentally and its all because I started lifting weights this year. No one showed me how, my parents are not fit, and I don't have fit friends. I'm not athletic, I have asthma and always was picked last in gym class in high school. But this year I decided, on my own, to learn how to lift weights from the internet, and I have never felt more clearheaded and peaceful in my 27 years of life. Thankfully I also found channels like yours along the way. Thank you for doing what you're doing.
Keep doing your thing, Zack. You have been a positive influence on me personally, and hopefully I'm a positive influence on others. Before you know it, helping an "individual" has made a real impact to society as whole.
There is a reason that physical activity has a big role in any good mental institution. I've been admitted to 3 different mental hospitals over the years, and although their approach to therapy was different, they all had great emphasis on the benefits of physical activity as part of getting better. Therapy is great. Physical activity is awesome. If you struggle with mental health issues, therapy AND physical activity is a seriously strong combo. It's been a couple of years now since I last was in therapy and I attribute much of me being able to live without therapy and medications now to physical activity. It helps.
Lmao exactly the first thing I said watching this video especially the 1.5 times better than meds part, I just say to myself "why not both?" I don't understand how this kind of thing could be controversial cus I myself is someone who's on antidepressants and is working out regularly (again) BECAUSE of the meds. I just think these people hating on Zack's post is probably just hurt cus they're not as fit as him lol
My dad was committed couple of years ago due to workplace related stress and they literally had a gym inside the institution and going there was part of therapy.
These people have no idea of depression. Talking about how exercising is taking away responsibility from society and putting it on the individual is like not putting on a turniquet after losing a leg in a workplace accident because you dont want to solve a problem caused by an unjust system. The logical course of action would be to make sure you survive first so you can actually make a change in society instead of whining
yes, I agree...but many depressed people have made pretty positive contributions on society as well (artists, comedians, musicians, philosophers, even some social activists). Sometimes we forget that we don't need to be our best before we can do something worthwhile...
Phenomenal video Zack! I also was surprised about this paper a month ago when I first saw it. The beautiful thing is that the paper talked about 3 specific forms of exercise, weight training, walking, and yoga. It also found that the more intensive the exercise, the better it helps with mental health. For those starting their fitness journey, a walk is beautiful as almost everyone can do it, it's free, and easily accessible, PLUS, walking is not intimidating for the VAST VAST VAST MAJORITY of us folks. So start there guys. Lets get it!
When you live better than the others, in anything, there will be people who are indifferent, people who are inspired, and people who envy and hate you and want you to fail and use false arguments to make you quit. This is just facts. And they do that just because you are better and do something better than them. I think that if you just keep doing what you want to do, and block out the noise, these people will eventually give up. And the people who really want to improve, will pass from those who just hate you over nothing, and follow what you're doing right. The remedy to hateful people is just ignore them, and make them suffocate by just being yourself. And this is not motivational speech, this is just facts. If we keep responding to these mf's online like this, if they are not relevant, with a lot of followers or something like that, just ignore them. They want attention from people like you, bro.
Nothing grinds my gears more then having to constantly pick a side and be all-in even if only 1 thing out of 100 leans that way. Its ridiculous and social media has used this tactic to its fullest. Im not sure where I would be without lifting and im damn sure not going to be told that it frames me politically.
Some behaviors are stereotyped because they are true though, like people that vote left tend to have fucked up haircuts, hair dye, overweight, unkept, all the behaviors that lead to that physical look they encompass.
No one wants to be fit because no one wants to lift no heavy ass weights lol, all jokes aside I loved the video and completely agree with you. People should definitely consider working out, alongside seeking a mental health therapist when feeling depressed. The gym has definitely helped me!
Honestly you don't even have to go to the gym (although I would recommend it) people would be much happier if they took up running or some form of sport.
Being fit is always controversial, especially in countries like America where people are overweight to obese. Its counter culture to be fit, I dont care how many videos are out there, most people refuse to put in the work.
@@danisrusski6297 Sports in media is very different from people actually participating in sports and fitness. It's great for motivating people to exercise, but it's just a different channel on the tv for the majority.
@@ize7821 Fitness as a lifestyle is counter culture (like zack), fitness as a hobby is absolutely not. In fact, it's probably THE most popular hobby. It's the most generic thing to be a 20 something guy who exercises. How many guys do you know that ride a bike or run every morning? Pretty much everyone I know, even my coworkers and my boss.
Fat-acceptance warriors are going to loud for a few years then die of heart attacks, diabetes and depression. Its cool to be a victim for internet cloud but at the end of the day the fat-acceptance people have to look at themselves in the mirror everyday
i can say with full confidence i probably wouldn’t be here today without the gym. gave me something to focus on/put my anger into when my little bro passed. i can’t not workout, it’s just something i do now. it’s one of the few things in my control on a daily basis, and i look forward to it every day.
This is fantastic content, Zach. I really appreciate the nuance and thought you put into the ideas you try and convey here. You are part of a disappearing middle ground in public discourse. Most people seem to want to join established camps rather than think critically about information. Keep up the good work.
Those sorts of comments encapsulate my frustration with a lot of Leftists/Progressives, despite being one myself. There's this strain of leftism that has a learned helplessness where once you identify a societal cause of a problem then they seem to believe that individual improvement is meaningless. Just because a lot of the obesity epidemic can be traced to the sedentary lifestyle our culture encourages and the high availability of calorie dense foods doesn't mean you can't personally take steps to stay fit and healthy. You can believe that a lot of mental/emotional issues people deal with can have their root in a lack of economic opportunity/social connection/etc. and still understand that exercise is a powerful tool to improve your mental wellbeing. I wish these people would come to realize that these ideas can coexist.
I'm studying at the university of South Australia! Go team! Without getting into too much discourse it breaks me so many individuals choose to disregard professionals in their field to listen to internet hearsay. Keep up the good fight Zac!
People are acting like it's so hard just to go for a walk outside. I've been making an effort to walk my dogs more and you know what happened? I feel happier and more energized throughout the day, the dogs love me because they're outside more, and my waist is coming down. It didn't cost me anything other than time and even that can be adjusted to whatever necessary to suite what's available.
pessimism is one hell of a mood killer. I always suggest people find a fitness activity they enjoy doing rather than forcing themselves to do an activity that they believe they should be doing. It doesn't matter what the result is if you can't stand what it takes to get to it. I think our culture just makes a lot of certain sports difficult and odd for adults to pursue. Some lady once commented to me how she always wanted to do gymnastics but as a 40 yr old it was like being an 80 year back in college. Something that might have been beneficial to her as a route into being more active was concluded as adults at her age shouldn't be learning gymnastics. It's easy to say "people should just be more active", but in reality, if their brain isn't giving them any dopamine for doing it then they most likely won't continue. In order to do something you hate, you need a very strong motivator, and not everyone does. It's easier to be motivated by doing something you enjoy or perceive you will enjoy.
@@ChristAcolytehow fucking Hard is to understand that for some People is not that simple? Look at your own Life and i am pretty sure that there are things you cant do that are as simple as that.
Normally not a youtube commenter but the "able-bodied" comment rightfully pissed me off. I was born with a neuromuscular disability limiting the use of my arm, and have been training regularly in crossfit and weightlifting for 9 years. I got my CFL1 and coached in high school and college. I know several people through instagram that have the same injury and are also crossfit and weightlifting coaches. I see people with other disabilities training, competing, and coaching all the time. If I met someone with a disability who felt they couldn't train because of it, I'd understand where they're coming from but would still encourage them to find something that works. For a normie to use disabled people as their excuse to not work out is shameful, especially given that if she knew any disabled people she'd see many of them pushing harder than her.
I think most of the people pushing back are people who either might have issues that lie beyond being ammendable by what they are doing in terms of physical activity, or people who find it really hard with motivation to do exercise because of mental health. That exercise is - percieved to be - called out as some magical cure all, is interpreted as to invalidate the reasons for their pain. They might work out, or maybe they dont. But when someone is suffering, it is never percieved to be because of some physical exercise deficiency. People get negative emotions because of ruminating on bad social experiences or negative thoughts or feeling like they have no way forward or things to look forward to. A lack of agency because of a lack of sense of opportunity. A lack of gratitude for their situation in life. A lack of community, or people who support them genuinely. Some people might feel like something is hindering them from doing exercise, this is a hurdle in itself that needs to be dealt with first. Physical exercise really does work, if you can do it, the effect is real. Sometimes it wont work 100%. But as someone who is consistent, taking a few days off once in a while, and a generally unhappy feeling is starting to emerge as out of nowhere. This pattern is so clear to me by now.
You’re right and those are great points but you have to do something about it one way or another. Sometimes people don’t want to look at the problem because then they have to do something about it
As someone who is very progressive and has been in physical culture my whole life, I agree with this take. I’ve been a life long martial artist and I played football in college. I also spent time as an apprentice personal trainer. I find it weird when people who I tend to agree with politically shit on fitness. In my eyes it seeds important ground to people with otherwise (imho) objectionable opinions. Like there’s so much space between pro-health and anti-fat people to the point of bullying them any chance you get. It’s a weird world man
So many people confuse Exercise with Recreation. Of course not everyone has the time or money to join a crossfit gym or play pickleball twice a week. But basic exercise for your physical and mental health can be as simple as a twenty minute walk and some pushups everyday. Regular exercise should be in the same category as brushing your teeth, not going to the movies.
I remember that post and I thought it was a great post! I’m surprised that people would have such a strong reaction against physical activity because (as many people have) I’ve had my fair share of mental health run ins and without being overly dramatic I feel like exercise has changed my life in such a positive way. I also believe we as inidividuals have a responsibility in maintaining our own mental health, just like we do our physical health. Also saying that most people don’t have access to exercise simply isn’t true. It can be as simple as going for a run outside. My only question regarding the study is how to motivate a depressed individual to exercise? I imagine that could be difficult…
Lmao that person saying that personal wellbeing shouldn't be a personal responsibility is fucking cracked. I remember when I used to think like that. I tortured myself daily for years and wanted to die and tried to many times. It doesn't work and is not a winning strategy. Take ownership of your behaviour and end the victim mentality. It may not be your fault for being where you currently are mentally and emotionally, but it is your responsibility to be your best self to enable the people in your life to be their best selves (imo). Lashing out at posts like Zack's is to completely miss the point.
I'm 100% convinced that exercise is the only effective way to treat my raging ADHD. Exercise and some sitting down and making schedules, pre planning my days and trying to stick to the schedule and the list. Being disorganized and indecisive really pulls productivity down and that grinds day after day into some sort of never ending cycle of procrastination and uncertainty. Having a purpose and getting my ass out of the house really seem to do the trick.
Be animal designed for constant movement and advanced coordination. Decided to stop one day and isolate yourself from society. Body begins to break down. “I don’t know what is wrong with me”
As someone who was formerly clinically depressed/anxious, when you feel bad about yourself you literally train yourself to desire feeling worse about yourself. Looking back, I can see that I made conscious choices to feel bad and take more and more pain into my life. I didn't just pathologically believe I deserved more pain, I felt like I WANTED that pain. I wanted to be convinced that I was the worst dogshit scum of the earth and there was nothing I, or anyone else, could do about it. I was obsessed with how the past had ruined who I was now, and I was obsessed with how I was certain I would screw up the future. A recipe for absolute disaster all made and maintained by me on a moment to moment basis. The reason I can no longer accept the arguments presented by these commenters is because I can see the signs. They are not making a moral argument for the value or lack thereof of your post, rather, they are using your platform to form their own platform where they continue to convince themselves and others that they SHOULD be in pain, that they WANT more pain, and that nothing could possibly change that. I want to be clear, as much as it sucks to hear this: being depressed/anxious for MOST PEOPLE (maybe more, but I can't say for sure) is a choice. It's making the choice every day to cram as much pain and negative feedback through the mechanism of thought into yourself as possible. In the same way, making healthy choices around eating and exercise is a choice. It's a very simple choice. It doesn't have to be optimal. It doesn't have to be well put together. But making the choice to believe you are someone who can do these things, and then affirming that through making the choice to do the things insinuated by your beliefs creates a positive feedback loop of growing trust in one's self and the universe around you.
Been working out for 4 years. It used to help, doesn't really anymore despite me being more consistent and in shape then ever. Considering meds now tbh.
ah yes it's everyone eleses fault that i don't try to better myself before hopping on copius amounts of drugs and expensive therapy to cope with my laziness
I watched this video a number of times since last night. It hit hard. As an individual currently living the average western adult life, I feel trapped. I'm stuck in this life where even the exploration of fitness and bettering myself is difficult, due to how little time we have. Working the job I am currently employed in has led me to thoughts of suicide. Working for a big corporation was never a dream of mine. But now, it's my dream to leave this kind of work. Thank you for this video. It went hard. It's something that many people need to hear. It was a video that I needed.
I haven’t seen a lot of your videos thus far, but I’ve seen you on other channels or heard mention of you before, so I was curious what this video would be like. People I respect think highly of you, after all. And I’m glad I clicked on it. I’ll be engaging with your stuff now, and sharing what I can. It’s certainly an odd situation now where people have become outright anti-fitness for whatever various reasons. And that makes what you do a harder task, but I’m glad you’re doing what you do, man. Health is a matter of interwoven layers, and supporting the physical reinforces the mental and emotional. Personally, my immediate family went kinda stir-crazy during the lockdowns, until we picked up physical activities - gardening and lawn work for my sister, callisthenics and fencing for myself, pilates for everyone else. These also helped us get outside and enjoy a little more nature. I kinda slipped on the fitness train last year, and I wasn’t at my best physically before 2020, but now I’m really getting into something of a routine and I definitely feel better than I used to. What you do is always important! Your skills and your knowledge and your platform on the Internet can help - and do help - spread the good word of fitness and improvement. That’s your gift to the world. I’ll do what I can on my end to help, too. Thanks for the video, Zack.
Omg this 💪🏽🙌🏽. So many keyboard warriors. And lets not leave out how many people are not nattys to achieve a look that says im alpha and your not because i have a six pack.
I spent 14 years in the Army and 65 months in combat. I am 100% disabled, permanently and totally. I struggle with PTSD. I live 30 minutes from a gym. I still go 4x a week, because I get tf up at 5 am and DO IT. Medication is fine. Therapy mostly sucks, but it can work. If I didn't get physically active, I would have suck started a gun. People and their excuses and defeatist mentalities make me sick. Thank you ZT, NO EXCUSES, JUST IMPROVE
I feel bad for military people becoming disabled and having mental issues like PTSD, with the illusion of ''protecting'' ones country. Imagine spending billions of dollars in military just to get owned by a bunch of sandpeople with ak's, after a decade just leaving while the taliban take control within a few weeks. I would never throw my life away for a bunch of rich jews.
Well said. We need more people like you connecting the dots of where those in power want to take out society. We are clearly moving towards a “wall-e” society and those that reject will be shamed into compliance.
All I can say, Zack, is to keep fucking preaching! Watching your videos spurred me to start lifting in my 50's...and I'm damn happy about it! Much respect!
It takes patience, and integrity, to present the best possible evidence to date for fitness doing good - and get this response. I, we, trust you to get the message out. Never forget the silent majority - we will always be here
I stopped drinking this year, that was the first step to helping my depression. Today I am 296 days sober. The next step was to start doing calisthenics and working out. I was on SSRI's for my depression but stopped taking them about 2-3 months ago. I haven't felt this good in such a long time. People don't want to be personally responsible for ANY of their shortcomings but honestly, that's where I made most of my progress. I could go ahead and blame everything BUT me for the reason as to why I am the way I am but all that did was make excuses for my behavior and I never got any less depressed from it. It wasn't until I looked inward that I realized that most of my issues we're caused by me and the ones that weren't were things that I had no control over anyways so their really was no point in stressing over it. Self-mastery is the only real power anyone has and with that power comes responsibility.
This is a very important video, thank you for making it and starting the dialogue. I agree with you. Society is making everyone sedentary and physical fitness is absolutely necessary. Working out 100% has mental health benefits.
You realize all those things you just listed are habits as is fitness. Exercise/ going outside/ eating / changing people. Those are all habits and can be really challenging to change all at once. Not impossible but its hard. I know i was one of those people. This coming off as an absolute mandate. Its like telling someone you're poor stop being poor. Its not easy. For the first timer working out can be intimidating asF! Yeah Zach has it all together now, but even he was a newb once. We all have anxieties first time at a gym or a box. Go to a gym week 1 of January its packed. Go a few weeks later its back to normal. This is for sure a mental/confidence/habit issue. Have some empathy. Not everyone is in your unique situation. Today all your bros are jacked and social media influencers but that was not always the case. Some people are built that way and its take major effort to overcome this. Thanks for caring ❤
man this was awesome. absolutely awesome. keep rocking dude. (also post some more jiu jitsu. i know it's not your main thing but still, you're a great content creator)
Loving the piano music from the original "The Sims" playing in the background. Also can say for myself at least that exercise is great for mental health. Discovering how much I love chasing deadlift PRs is honestly one of the best things that's ever happened to me.
Me in 2021: Sad, Depressed, alcoholic , want to unalive myself Me in 2022: Im gonna move across the country, live with my friends and get absolutely yoked. Me in 2023: Good paying job, living in a beautiful apartment, great friend group that keeps growing, sick physique that is getting sicker by the month. Still depressed but i dont want to off myself anymore.
I'm definitely walking and still living example of that exercising is crucial in overcoming depression and general feeling like absolute shieeet. I was going to therapy because of depression that was related to a sudden inability to exercise (due to many injuries), money problems, and feeling underachieved in my late 20s. For like 4 months of going to therapy it looked like it didn't go anywhere. I got fixed up injury-wise and started training again. Maaan the mood went rocket high when I did the first proper WL session. In maybe 4 months, Depression went from crushing bed laying nothing doing chocolate eating piece of crap to a dude that is smiling, caring for his wife, and has the motivation to achieve those things that caused late 20s crisis. Of course, I attended therapy and worked on my problems. But! In my opinion, if I didn't incorporate exercising, my progress would be so slow that most surely would stop going to therapy. Ladies and gents exercising IS really fucking important. Thanks for great video ZAH
I have been wondering this for a while. I'm a leftist, so perhaps farther left than the average person in general. But, I am always confused why there are so few liberals/ left leaning moderates in the zeitgeist of fitness. Obviously there are left leaning people in the circle, but the vast majority of influencers who talk politics in fitness are conservative.
Because its painted as if you dont have a six pack train jiujitsu and go hunting (joe rogans crew) then you aint American and only the strong 💪🏽 are them. Its their mantra that they have adopted with a mega phone. I lift and do my thing but im not advocating for everyone to do it call them out if they dont. But im not left Or Right im just me
I have Major Depression; anecdotally medication is a good disruptor. But for improvement: physical activity (even walking) > cognitive behavior therapy > medication. And there is zero reason not to do everything. If it's something like schizophrenia, which effects closee to 1% of Americans, physical activity is still helpful but not to the point of medication. If it's to the point of harm just get your ass or your loved one to a hospital, it's surprising how much just a few days of safety will help. Asking for help doesn't make you weak, it gives you a pathway to get stronger.
@yoeyyoey8937 is true. Psychological health can have a huge stigma outside of medicine. Thanks, Hollywood. The first step should typically be seeking medical attention for stabilization. After that, a ton of depression is situational. I think a lot of it stems from "my life doesn't seem to be progressing where goals are being accomplished." Physical activity does release endorphins, which is going to make someone feel good, but most importantly, it provides short, medium, and long range goals which can be applied elsewhere in life. Having some amount of professional support can give a more objective assessment in how things are going and if certain activities are a detriment. Even solely relying on exercise could also become a detriment, but it's definitely a start at creating a holistic approach to well-being. Some people are just ignorant around this, and it's not entirely their fault. It is a complex issue.
@@drhjhulsebos you’re right it’s not their fault, there needs to be more emphasis on the benefits and how to attain them. Exercise itself helps balance hormones/neurotransmitters and puts you into a better mental space itself, and training with goals can help further provide structure and psychological momentum to one’s life. This should be a standard part of people’s treatment imo especially if the patient is otherwise treatment-resistant
I can understand that there are legitimate limitations in terms of accessibility, time, and overall societal issues that influence one’s ability to maintain fitness as a foundational part of life. But, from personal experience, I think that fitness can be a tool to not only combat the terrible effects of mental illness, but also as one of the most empowering and health gaining activities that you can practice in life. I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression for the majority of my life and the one thing that has given me true footing, a platform to make progress and succeed in areas outside of mental health is fitness. I will say that this took time! It took a true commitment on my part to allow my body and mind to adjust to the process of finding a routine and a rhythm. But once I did, I have seen such an improvement in my mental health. This is not to be thought of as a cure all, I still have days where I struggle. But if we have something so valuable that can be utilized to combat the overwhelming mental health disparities that we are facing, why wouldn’t exercise be utilized as much as possible when applicable? Love your channel Zack!
Fitness should be something that everyone does for themselves. That's why there's so many modalities, so many options. Funky man, even when I was a homeless drug addict, 3 days a week I would go do pushups and pullups at a playground while the kids were in school. When I got clean, I was mystified that the fat acceptance movement was rolling and that we had somehow agreed on a national level that self improvement was an activity for far right extremists. This is a sick sick society brother.
I'm with you Zack! Physical well being has an incredible effect on your mental well being. Both of these things make up the overall well being of an individual. Arguing the two are separate, or that it's impossible for people to get active because they don't have money or privilege is ridiculous. David Goggins has a great post out there for people making excuses as to why they can't change or get fit, and I quote; "Do you have a floor? Do some pushups! " It's that easy to get started. I guess people are more inclined to make excuses than to actually do something other than complain.
ive a chronic pain condition caused by damaged nerves in the side of my head. Literally every day is pain either akin to a burning candle too close to my face or the delicate sensation of getting an electric shock to my temple. Daily. Whats got me through and will continue to do so is fitness. It shows me despite my now lifelong condition i am alive. Who needs smelling salts in this life when i got nerve damage to wake me up lol. But what really gets me is how silent it is. I get the gymbro talkdowns, random people saying that my enthusiasm for lifting weights is toxic, and an insult to disabled folks, despite my own disability being invisible. For me this conditions allowed me to see true strength. Its our combined efforts in the gym but also our ability to deal with the unfairness of life. Be it from people or wonky nerves lol Ty for a great video.
Exercise helped me after my college sports career ended. It gave me confidence and structure to my life. I also gave my live to Jesus which made everything better. I will say that many of people's issues lie in the lack of community, purpose, and sense of accomplishment. I think most people are aware that exercise is good for them, however they have this notion that they have to be olympic athletes for it to be worth their while. I have people close to me that want to start and I tried to help. Their biggest obstacles are to overcome their former selves when they were at their peak. Others probably do need medication to get started, yet many professionals do not have a clue on how or where to start an exercise plan. The fitness culture is to blame here as well making outsiders get these crazy expectations and selling unrealistic goals.
This is a societal issue, 100% agree. One that requires a combined group and individual effort to truly address. Additionally, I think that anyone asserting that fitness or personal responsibility/accountability is a predominantly a conservative ideal is patently absurd, demonstratively false, and laughably out of touch with reality.
This is what I do for a living. Fitness in Recovery for mental Health and Substance use disorder. My organization (The Connection Project) and others like it (fit2recover SLC, The Phoenix Denver) know the benefits and are out there spreading the word. Others like Dr. John Rady and Treehouse recovery as well.
Earlier this year my father experienced heart failure and then had two heart valves replaced. It put alot of stress on me to take care of him during the recovery period. It began weighing on my mental health. I got myself back into a gym routine and the stress and depression has now gone away. Exercise is powerful and everybody needs to do it.
I did a study on this for my undergrad. It’s sadly under-utilised. Several theories why exercise is so effective; Endorphin hypothesis(exercise stimulates happy hormones), the self esteem hypothesis, where exercise is a mastery curve, allows us to see ourselves improve at something increasing self confidence/beliefs, and improved health + body image. Lastly excercise sometimes has a similar effect on the brain to meditation (flow states etc) which is also being studied for improvements on MH.The likelihood is that a combination of all have a great effect :)
Depression isn’t just chemicals in the brain. That’s missing the forest for the trees. Depression comes from the lack of power. The reason exercise helps depression isn’t because of serotonin release but that someone has set a goal and reached it and this release serotonin. Depression is so prevalent in industrialized society because many people have been rendered useless by machines. This is what gave rise to hobbies. Because people spend so much of their time doing useless tasks for work they need to do something to feel a sense of power and accomplishment. Lifting weights being a huge a growing hobby for people in developed countries.
While most of these people are obviously coping with their lack of fitness, I think it's important to recognise that when you are truly depressed, it feels like you are massively exhausted, leaving little space for physical activity. This is backed by the current understanding of clinical depression. I just hope people who never had depression empathise with that, I definitely had to get better mentally first before starting to be diligent with gym.
yeah, i love working out, but I have to be at least somewhat ok to do it, or rather the fact that I've started means that I'm already better (and then the benefits stack up). When I have an episode, when life is a constant pain, when I don't care if I died right there (or would even prefer it that way), and the only thing that gives me relief is sleep, exercising is a completely abstract idea. Then again if you're in that state or worse you probably don't partake in studies too often
Yeah depressed people need to just workout, not push themselves to the brink. When you're down and out a chill half sad 50% effort work out is good enough. People, especially those who don't exercise regularly, think going to the gym means 2 hours of nonstop pain and puking every day. 30 minutes of easy cardio is enough
also idk how to phrase this, but I mean there are active people (either who exercise or do physical labor) who are depressed, of course they would most likely have been worse off lying in bed all day, but it's not like being active makes them immune. (not saying that Zack said something like that i'm just rambling)
This is like saying “if you don’t vacuum, it can feel like you’re stepping on a million different things”. Well obviously, I’d be depressed too if I didn’t workout. There’s endorphins, hormones, etc that are conversely related to exercise and depression. If you don’t vacuum, you’ll feel the crumbs on the ground.
@@DarthBane-zf8wv I think you're missing the fact that you can work out and still become clinically depressed, which would then make you not want to work out. Saying " I’d be depressed too if I didn’t workout" dismisses all the other factors that can cause depression.
some people would rather be miserable and make up faults for positive things. i think it's great that you're addressing their non-arguments, and it's clear that you're passionate about fitness and helping others. i guess i wanna say don't take it personal. i bet a lot of the negative comments were for their own benefit than anything. hopefully one day they'll find it worthwhile to invest in their health and see that you were right all along.
Zack! It's format and its social media. I dont think the disagreement you have with your comment section would happen any other way. Your caption relatively neutral put out a proposition that is as close to being fact as any research hypothesis could ever hope to be (Meta-analysis of RCT with n >100.000) and because its social media people have insert themselves and add-on and scrutinize. I feel as if it's psychologically difficcult for someone in social media to take such a fact at face value and move the conversation in constructive direction with that fact in mind.
Bro theres guys getting jacked with homemade equipment in their impoverished West African village. (To be fair west Africans have the best genes for building muscle mass) The idea that you need all this material prosperity and support to be fit is bs.
I've been having some mental issues for the last year, and I'm seeing a therapist to help me through them. But that said, honestly, my one hour daily exercise sesh is one of the few things that keep me going every day. There's nothing like lifting heavy to remind you that, despite your insecurities, you can do it
I think the whole like 'right wing' 'fitness/gym bro/girl' thing is due to the fact that it takes lot of self control, self respect and discipline, something which often isn't found on 'the other sides' of the political spectrum. Self accountability and action? Wow, so radical.. it's sad society has got to this point.
I think most people here are missing the point, no one is saying fitness is bad, just that when society is built in a way that heavily encourages sedentarism, it's going to take societal changes to change this reality. Just pointing out that exercise is good and that you as an individual should go do it is not gonna cut it, and so governments should invest more into physical health for the population, which is what zack was promoting. I don't know where the "if you're fit you're a trump supporter" stuff came from as no one said anything like this
I've struggled with moderate depression my entire life and exercising is such a huge part of my treatment. I'm still depressed pretty much 24/7, but it's crazy what an impact it can have, especially when I'm deep in the hole. I spent two weeks recently where I was so deep in the hole, and wasn't speaking to anyone, couldn't focus, etc. Friend agreed to try out a powerlifting routine, so just putting together a bench day workout alone I started lifting out of the hole a bit. We hit the workout the next day, and compared to the past two weeks I was feeling like a million bucks for the day afterwards.
I think you're spot on that when anyone advocates for anything, people automatically assume that because you advocate for that thing you must be picking a side and are against anything else. Just because we advocate for the use of exercise for mental health does not somehow mean we are saying you shouldn't go to therapy or use medication. Those may be useful tools as well but so too is exercise and it should be no sooner overlooked than other tools. Everyone's case is going to be different, some people are in a real bad spot and even with every one of those tools it can take lots of time to get better but that is all the more reason to do your best to use every tool available which includes exercise! To me that accessibility argument in the one IG comment is also ridiculous, you could say the same things for therapy or medications being potentially inaccessible. Disabilities are one thing but if you are able and simply lack the funds to access a gym, you certainly lack the funds for therapy! In a better society all of these things would be free to access for everybody but even as it stands, exercise, bar having disabilities, is anything but inaccessible in one form or another. Even if you don't have a gym or a park to go to there are always at least some things you can do at home and anything is infinitely better than nothing.
I know this is purely anecdotal, but without medical intervention I would literally be dead right now. I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression for nearly my entire life. I’m also in the gym 5 times a day and stay physically active while I’m outside the gym. For years I was told I just needed to get out more. Be grateful. Take more walks. Get more sun. ON TOP of all the physical activities I was already doing. I put off getting help because I felt like it was my fault for not doing enough. Seeing a therapist or getting on medication would make me “weak.” I was the failure for not being able to cure myself. I was at my peak physical fitness when I tried to end it all. I believe in the importance of physical activity, but it’s not always the answer to all problems.Telling people that all they need is a nice jog in the sunshine can also do a lot of harm and keep them from getting the help they need. Sometimes people need medical help and there’s no shame in that.
Has a disabled lifter, I completely agree, fitness has been instrumental not only in my physical recovery, but much more in my mental health, my depression is greatly alleviated by fitness and that’s saying a lot considering I have a severe neurodegenerative condition that is very hard to live with mentally.
Statements about mental health trigger people who struggle with that. Almost always the turning point of therapy was for me when I accepted that I was the Problem at a deeper Level. For that you have to be accountable so I can See why people who struggle with mental health try not to be accountable regarding Fitness, finding excuses along the way
Unfortunately mental health has become another buzz word of the day. Mental health is a vague concept to begin with and one that changes with time - please check out the major controversies regarding DSM-5 mental health guide and the "medicalizing" of behaviors. Exercise isn't going to make mental issues go away but it does provide a way for people to make changes and improve their body and mind. But...in today's modern world people have to get likes and views and what better way than to try and be "controversial"
Last few years I lost a business and am trying to keep another one I'm involved with alive. It's been hard. I've spent nearly a year overseas to do this over 2023, away from family, friends, cool toys, beautiful countryside I live in, etc.. And not long before I left, I started back into gyming. I did in past 6-7 years bodybuilding over a decade ago. Now after 7 months or so I gained 15kg/30lbs dirty bulking, cutting down and I'm another 2-3kg heavier again and bigger than I ever have been and ever fitter too! NO PEDs. Just diet, only recently got on whey protein (wow, so radical). Bit of a unit now lol 6'1 220+ of unit :D. This has given me better discipline in business and personal life, ticking off projects and getting patents and things like that. Healthy, disciplined body means your mind will be similar :) It needs a base and if you give your brain that base, you'll perform better than without. I'm all over the place politically but definitely pushed more right over the last few years as the loud minority amplified by koshersocial media gets literally 'padded walls' insane. Funny how that happens.
The best thing I ever did was find my way to a gym and some how get it right. I stopped being depressed and everything has improved for me by taking on weight training with the goal of strength and personal improvement being all I was after. I can't say enough good things about fitness being included as part of a larger strategy to fight depression, anxiety and all sorts of mental health issues.
Mmh yes nice meta-analysis, but have you considered my sourceless wordsalad based on nothing ?
Mmmm yes, inquisitive. Oh, you are depressed and anxious as well? Might I suggest posting physique
Ah yes, but have you considered my appeal to emotion and the added guilt tripping?
TO ALL MY FELLOW HUMANS. SWOLE IS THE GOAL. SIZE IS THE PRIZE 🏆!
OMFG wordsalad I'm adding that to the word bank.
Strength to weight ratio wins over that aspiration!
It’s crazy to me how quickly people will jump on medication and never consider doing things like exercise, going outside, eating better, and if possible changing the people you surround yourself with.
I agree as someone who is on medication. While I did end up going on medication, fitness along with my faith got me out the deepest darkest part of the hole and medication is just stepping stone helping me to become fully functional and I don't plan on being on it forever. I will always do my best to be active physically and spiritually.
It's because a doctor doesn't make money from it.
I used to have horrible headaches and was 350+lbs instead of the doc saying "hey you might feel like shit because your morbidly obese and barely exercise" instead they threw me on some drugs that caused manic episodes.
As someone who has major, debilitating depressive episodes with ending it all ideation sometimes those things are incomprehensible. I'm a lifelong athlete and former fighter. I trained upwards of 30 hours a week, but when the depressions truly began it was like a thousand-pound blanket was pinning me to my bed. Today I use a combination of low-dose meds, a 12-step program for an eating disorder, holy basil (an herb with good results in preliminary studies that doesn't have side effects like regular meds), continuing my education, and regular exercise, but it took years. I had to do some inside work to even begin to be consistent in the gym, so sometimes some of us need different starting points. Meds can, and often should, be temporary. They can be the hand that rolls back the blanket and pulls you out of bed in the morning until you're in a place where you can do it on your own. I'm on a minimum dose because they help with my night terrors. That sleep paralysis demon is a persistent mf
One categoey requires a lot more exertion over the other. People running away from pain and complete inability to contextualise pain is the problem imo.
I work with a guy that sees a doctor for nerves…. Yet he drinks a red bull every day. People are just stupid.
Isn’t choosing to go to a therapist taking personal responsibility for your mental health? But that choice is good and choosing physical activity is bad?
Both are good, but leaning on 1 or the other is the problem.
It's also more expensive isn't it?
Exactly what I was thinking. Just two different approaches which both take personal accountability that lead to the same end goal (happiness).
Take a break from the internet bro lol real life is much more chill
Without physical health mental health is worthless.
Perhaps the heaviest things we lift and carry are not our weights, but our feels.
😆
Better not to PR on those though
Maybe it was the friends we lifted along the way.
You nailed it when you said both things can exist. Exercise is fantastic IF it is accessible to you. I recently had surgery and watched my mental health crumble while I couldn't walk for months.
I think your message is correct and good and useful. However, most people do not give that suggestion in a kind and understanding way. Most people deliver this same message in a way that is very "bootstraps" and as if people can just choose not to have certain conditions. That's not your fault Zack, but that's why people react as if this information is controversial.
Most often someone who binge eats as a coping mechanism for their PTSD gets insulted for their struggles and barking at them to get in the gym is not going to be received well. Telling someone with debilitating OCD to just get your ass out the door is not motivating, but it's something people say constantly as if it's just a matter of will power.
On the other hand, telling someone who hasn't bathed or eaten in a week because they're too depressed to get out of bed for more than 2 minutes at a time that getting some fresh air and sunshine might help them feel better is much more likely to be taken as good and helpful advice.
The science behind the advice in those scenarios is the same but we must deliver it as encouragement, not to belittle them. With compassion, not guilt. Support, not shame. ❤
Even though my Crossfitting 26 y.o. with Down Syndrome is non-verbal his entire being after a workout is ethereal. It has transformed our entire family. And if that big ole smile from him and his coaches doesn't say it all, I don't know what else would. Exercise is the fucking key to life.
Epitome of "look at me" bullshit" No one gives a shit.
Oh they're non verbal so you have to verbally assault us with CrossFit😭.....I'm jk that's awesome to hear!❤
I work in a school and there is this kid with diagnosed autism that became basically unmanageable when puberty hit and school work ramped up. I think he started judo recently and he's GLOWING now. Way less "episodes", way more positive energy in general.
Great video
Thank you Coach Greg for including the free sample pack in my HTLT supps purchase! I tried GO2MAX and I loved it. Haven't bought a bottle yet but definitely leaning towards it after the free sample
Let me address that first one from fata:
Responds well to physical fitness? I was 320lbs, over 100lbs overweight last August. Getting up and going was taxing. My HR was mid 60s WHILE I SLEPT. Walking up a flight of stairs it could hit 130.
2. Is able bodied. I mean, i could walk but i couldnt run. Couldnt jog. Whats able bodied? Ive seen people missing 2 legs do shit I probably never will...
3. Access to parks and gyms? Well, i couldn't afford a gym. And why or how will i use a park in 15deg weather? This makes no sense.
4. Support system? Well, my family kinda fought me the whole way. I have many stories to tell about that...
5. Access to knowledge: DO YOU HAVE A PHONE? YOU HAVE ACCESS.
Anyways, last year i went outside and walked on sidewalks for 1hr a day. I also kept track of my food using a free app. I lost weight and i became more able bodied.
Fast forward to today: ive ridden 80miles on my road bike in the last 3 days, including 2 days over 30mi a piece. Ive lost 92lbs, on my way to losing 100+
Nothing of what she said, I had when I started. I started with a pair of shoes and the determination to not die young so i can spend my life with my wife and see my kids grow.
Now my RHR is 49/50. I have the stamina of an endurance athlete. And im strength training now. All within 14 months.
It is fascinating how so many people can write so many words and dont say a single thing
The problem is the idea that all viewpoints are valid. Some people are just stupid
Welcome to postmodernism way of presenting ideas. One give away is when they say 'society' more than 5 times in one paragraph.
That's what happens when you're forced to hit a word count on English assignments throughout school. Whole lot of content but no substance🤣🤣🤣
@@MrSilentrage123like jordan mumblingson
How to write a school essay 101
I have never felt better in my entire life mentally and its all because I started lifting weights this year. No one showed me how, my parents are not fit, and I don't have fit friends. I'm not athletic, I have asthma and always was picked last in gym class in high school. But this year I decided, on my own, to learn how to lift weights from the internet, and I have never felt more clearheaded and peaceful in my 27 years of life. Thankfully I also found channels like yours along the way. Thank you for doing what you're doing.
Nice 👍
Legend
Physical health improves mental health.
Now you need a job
king behavior, keep up the good work and enjoy the rewards
Keep doing your thing, Zack.
You have been a positive influence on me personally, and hopefully I'm a positive influence on others. Before you know it, helping an "individual" has made a real impact to society as whole.
There is a reason that physical activity has a big role in any good mental institution. I've been admitted to 3 different mental hospitals over the years, and although their approach to therapy was different, they all had great emphasis on the benefits of physical activity as part of getting better. Therapy is great. Physical activity is awesome. If you struggle with mental health issues, therapy AND physical activity is a seriously strong combo. It's been a couple of years now since I last was in therapy and I attribute much of me being able to live without therapy and medications now to physical activity. It helps.
Lmao exactly the first thing I said watching this video especially the 1.5 times better than meds part, I just say to myself "why not both?" I don't understand how this kind of thing could be controversial cus I myself is someone who's on antidepressants and is working out regularly (again) BECAUSE of the meds. I just think these people hating on Zack's post is probably just hurt cus they're not as fit as him lol
My dad was committed couple of years ago due to workplace related stress and they literally had a gym inside the institution and going there was part of therapy.
Also, every good therapist knows how important physical health is, its not a secret
These people have no idea of depression. Talking about how exercising is taking away responsibility from society and putting it on the individual is like not putting on a turniquet after losing a leg in a workplace accident because you dont want to solve a problem caused by an unjust system. The logical course of action would be to make sure you survive first so you can actually make a change in society instead of whining
yes, I agree...but many depressed people have made pretty positive contributions on society as well (artists, comedians, musicians, philosophers, even some social activists). Sometimes we forget that we don't need to be our best before we can do something worthwhile...
Anyone where their disability is actually holding them back is going to be willing to do any thing that will help them some small percentage.
Phenomenal video Zack! I also was surprised about this paper a month ago when I first saw it. The beautiful thing is that the paper talked about 3 specific forms of exercise, weight training, walking, and yoga. It also found that the more intensive the exercise, the better it helps with mental health. For those starting their fitness journey, a walk is beautiful as almost everyone can do it, it's free, and easily accessible, PLUS, walking is not intimidating for the VAST VAST VAST MAJORITY of us folks. So start there guys. Lets get it!
I am going to treat my mental health issues regardless of whoever or whatever is "responsible" for it.
When you live better than the others, in anything, there will be people who are indifferent, people who are inspired, and people who envy and hate you and want you to fail and use false arguments to make you quit. This is just facts. And they do that just because you are better and do something better than them. I think that if you just keep doing what you want to do, and block out the noise, these people will eventually give up. And the people who really want to improve, will pass from those who just hate you over nothing, and follow what you're doing right. The remedy to hateful people is just ignore them, and make them suffocate by just being yourself. And this is not motivational speech, this is just facts. If we keep responding to these mf's online like this, if they are not relevant, with a lot of followers or something like that, just ignore them. They want attention from people like you, bro.
Nothing grinds my gears more then having to constantly pick a side and be all-in even if only 1 thing out of 100 leans that way. Its ridiculous and social media has used this tactic to its fullest. Im not sure where I would be without lifting and im damn sure not going to be told that it frames me politically.
Some behaviors are stereotyped because they are true though, like people that vote left tend to have fucked up haircuts, hair dye, overweight, unkept, all the behaviors that lead to that physical look they encompass.
No one wants to be fit because no one wants to lift no heavy ass weights lol, all jokes aside I loved the video and completely agree with you. People should definitely consider working out, alongside seeking a mental health therapist when feeling depressed.
The gym has definitely helped me!
Honestly you don't even have to go to the gym (although I would recommend it) people would be much happier if they took up running or some form of sport.
I appreciate you & all the stuff you do. Keep killing it 💗
You are awesome Zack, keep the awesome work!
Greetings from Chile!
Being fit is always controversial, especially in countries like America where people are overweight to obese. Its counter culture to be fit, I dont care how many videos are out there, most people refuse to put in the work.
Bruh counterculture to be fit? Sports is super popular in media?
@@danisrusski6297 Sports in media is very different from people actually participating in sports and fitness. It's great for motivating people to exercise, but it's just a different channel on the tv for the majority.
@@ize7821 Fitness as a lifestyle is counter culture (like zack), fitness as a hobby is absolutely not. In fact, it's probably THE most popular hobby. It's the most generic thing to be a 20 something guy who exercises. How many guys do you know that ride a bike or run every morning? Pretty much everyone I know, even my coworkers and my boss.
Fat-acceptance warriors are going to loud for a few years then die of heart attacks, diabetes and depression. Its cool to be a victim for internet cloud but at the end of the day the fat-acceptance people have to look at themselves in the mirror everyday
Maybe it's because I live in Colorado, but fitness as "counter culture" is absolutely absurd. Do you just hang out with neckbeards?
i can say with full confidence i probably wouldn’t be here today without the gym. gave me something to focus on/put my anger into when my little bro passed. i can’t not workout, it’s just something i do now. it’s one of the few things in my control on a daily basis, and i look forward to it every day.
This is fantastic content, Zach. I really appreciate the nuance and thought you put into the ideas you try and convey here. You are part of a disappearing middle ground in public discourse. Most people seem to want to join established camps rather than think critically about information. Keep up the good work.
Those sorts of comments encapsulate my frustration with a lot of Leftists/Progressives, despite being one myself. There's this strain of leftism that has a learned helplessness where once you identify a societal cause of a problem then they seem to believe that individual improvement is meaningless. Just because a lot of the obesity epidemic can be traced to the sedentary lifestyle our culture encourages and the high availability of calorie dense foods doesn't mean you can't personally take steps to stay fit and healthy. You can believe that a lot of mental/emotional issues people deal with can have their root in a lack of economic opportunity/social connection/etc. and still understand that exercise is a powerful tool to improve your mental wellbeing. I wish these people would come to realize that these ideas can coexist.
I'm studying at the university of South Australia! Go team! Without getting into too much discourse it breaks me so many individuals choose to disregard professionals in their field to listen to internet hearsay. Keep up the good fight Zac!
People are acting like it's so hard just to go for a walk outside. I've been making an effort to walk my dogs more and you know what happened? I feel happier and more energized throughout the day, the dogs love me because they're outside more, and my waist is coming down. It didn't cost me anything other than time and even that can be adjusted to whatever necessary to suite what's available.
For some people it is hard though. People with very bad depression will sometimes lack the ability to even get out of bed some days.
Whoa stop pushing your fitness industry agenda on me... It's like any sort of movement is now considered the "fitness industry"
@@grantoden8242 You have it the wrong way around. If you exercise more, you wouldn't want to spend the day in bed as often.
pessimism is one hell of a mood killer. I always suggest people find a fitness activity they enjoy doing rather than forcing themselves to do an activity that they believe they should be doing. It doesn't matter what the result is if you can't stand what it takes to get to it. I think our culture just makes a lot of certain sports difficult and odd for adults to pursue. Some lady once commented to me how she always wanted to do gymnastics but as a 40 yr old it was like being an 80 year back in college. Something that might have been beneficial to her as a route into being more active was concluded as adults at her age shouldn't be learning gymnastics. It's easy to say "people should just be more active", but in reality, if their brain isn't giving them any dopamine for doing it then they most likely won't continue. In order to do something you hate, you need a very strong motivator, and not everyone does. It's easier to be motivated by doing something you enjoy or perceive you will enjoy.
@@ChristAcolytehow fucking Hard is to understand that for some People is not that simple? Look at your own Life and i am pretty sure that there are things you cant do that are as simple as that.
Normally not a youtube commenter but the "able-bodied" comment rightfully pissed me off. I was born with a neuromuscular disability limiting the use of my arm, and have been training regularly in crossfit and weightlifting for 9 years. I got my CFL1 and coached in high school and college. I know several people through instagram that have the same injury and are also crossfit and weightlifting coaches. I see people with other disabilities training, competing, and coaching all the time. If I met someone with a disability who felt they couldn't train because of it, I'd understand where they're coming from but would still encourage them to find something that works. For a normie to use disabled people as their excuse to not work out is shameful, especially given that if she knew any disabled people she'd see many of them pushing harder than her.
100% you said it all and they desperately need to hear it. Thanks for sharing 🙏
I think most of the people pushing back are people who either might have issues that lie beyond being ammendable by what they are doing in terms of physical activity, or people who find it really hard with motivation to do exercise because of mental health. That exercise is - percieved to be - called out as some magical cure all, is interpreted as to invalidate the reasons for their pain. They might work out, or maybe they dont. But when someone is suffering, it is never percieved to be because of some physical exercise deficiency. People get negative emotions because of ruminating on bad social experiences or negative thoughts or feeling like they have no way forward or things to look forward to. A lack of agency because of a lack of sense of opportunity. A lack of gratitude for their situation in life. A lack of community, or people who support them genuinely. Some people might feel like something is hindering them from doing exercise, this is a hurdle in itself that needs to be dealt with first. Physical exercise really does work, if you can do it, the effect is real. Sometimes it wont work 100%. But as someone who is consistent, taking a few days off once in a while, and a generally unhappy feeling is starting to emerge as out of nowhere. This pattern is so clear to me by now.
I think most of the people pushing back are coping or virtue signaling
You’re right and those are great points but you have to do something about it one way or another. Sometimes people don’t want to look at the problem because then they have to do something about it
Great point. I work out 6 days a week. Started years ago when I was depressed. It used to help, doesn't really anymore.
You are correct though rumination is poison to the mind.
@@mitch5944 if you stopped it would get worse though ofc
Most of us are conservative. The woke stuff is too much.
As someone who is very progressive and has been in physical culture my whole life, I agree with this take. I’ve been a life long martial artist and I played football in college. I also spent time as an apprentice personal trainer. I find it weird when people who I tend to agree with politically shit on fitness. In my eyes it seeds important ground to people with otherwise (imho) objectionable opinions. Like there’s so much space between pro-health and anti-fat people to the point of bullying them any chance you get. It’s a weird world man
So many people confuse Exercise with Recreation. Of course not everyone has the time or money to join a crossfit gym or play pickleball twice a week. But basic exercise for your physical and mental health can be as simple as a twenty minute walk and some pushups everyday. Regular exercise should be in the same category as brushing your teeth, not going to the movies.
I remember that post and I thought it was a great post! I’m surprised that people would have such a strong reaction against physical activity because (as many people have) I’ve had my fair share of mental health run ins and without being overly dramatic I feel like exercise has changed my life in such a positive way.
I also believe we as inidividuals have a responsibility in maintaining our own mental health, just like we do our physical health. Also saying that most people don’t have access to exercise simply isn’t true. It can be as simple as going for a run outside. My only question regarding the study is how to motivate a depressed individual to exercise? I imagine that could be difficult…
Lmao that person saying that personal wellbeing shouldn't be a personal responsibility is fucking cracked. I remember when I used to think like that. I tortured myself daily for years and wanted to die and tried to many times. It doesn't work and is not a winning strategy.
Take ownership of your behaviour and end the victim mentality. It may not be your fault for being where you currently are mentally and emotionally, but it is your responsibility to be your best self to enable the people in your life to be their best selves (imo). Lashing out at posts like Zack's is to completely miss the point.
Ironically it’s cheaper to go to the gym than to access therapy and medication lol
I'm 100% convinced that exercise is the only effective way to treat my raging ADHD. Exercise and some sitting down and making schedules, pre planning my days and trying to stick to the schedule and the list. Being disorganized and indecisive really pulls productivity down and that grinds day after day into some sort of never ending cycle of procrastination and uncertainty.
Having a purpose and getting my ass out of the house really seem to do the trick.
Exactly. Training is a great way to build structure and discipline in your life. The spill over effect is unreal
Be animal designed for constant movement and advanced coordination. Decided to stop one day and isolate yourself from society. Body begins to break down. “I don’t know what is wrong with me”
As someone who was formerly clinically depressed/anxious, when you feel bad about yourself you literally train yourself to desire feeling worse about yourself. Looking back, I can see that I made conscious choices to feel bad and take more and more pain into my life. I didn't just pathologically believe I deserved more pain, I felt like I WANTED that pain. I wanted to be convinced that I was the worst dogshit scum of the earth and there was nothing I, or anyone else, could do about it. I was obsessed with how the past had ruined who I was now, and I was obsessed with how I was certain I would screw up the future. A recipe for absolute disaster all made and maintained by me on a moment to moment basis.
The reason I can no longer accept the arguments presented by these commenters is because I can see the signs. They are not making a moral argument for the value or lack thereof of your post, rather, they are using your platform to form their own platform where they continue to convince themselves and others that they SHOULD be in pain, that they WANT more pain, and that nothing could possibly change that.
I want to be clear, as much as it sucks to hear this: being depressed/anxious for MOST PEOPLE (maybe more, but I can't say for sure) is a choice. It's making the choice every day to cram as much pain and negative feedback through the mechanism of thought into yourself as possible.
In the same way, making healthy choices around eating and exercise is a choice. It's a very simple choice. It doesn't have to be optimal. It doesn't have to be well put together. But making the choice to believe you are someone who can do these things, and then affirming that through making the choice to do the things insinuated by your beliefs creates a positive feedback loop of growing trust in one's self and the universe around you.
Meds and exercise are where its at for me. Exercise alone isnt enough for my depression. Ive been super fit and very depressed at the same time.
Been working out for 4 years. It used to help, doesn't really anymore despite me being more consistent and in shape then ever. Considering meds now tbh.
ah yes it's everyone eleses fault that i don't try to better myself before hopping on copius amounts of drugs and expensive therapy to cope with my laziness
I watched this video a number of times since last night. It hit hard.
As an individual currently living the average western adult life, I feel trapped. I'm stuck in this life where even the exploration of fitness and bettering myself is difficult, due to how little time we have.
Working the job I am currently employed in has led me to thoughts of suicide. Working for a big corporation was never a dream of mine. But now, it's my dream to leave this kind of work.
Thank you for this video. It went hard. It's something that many people need to hear. It was a video that I needed.
I haven’t seen a lot of your videos thus far, but I’ve seen you on other channels or heard mention of you before, so I was curious what this video would be like. People I respect think highly of you, after all.
And I’m glad I clicked on it.
I’ll be engaging with your stuff now, and sharing what I can.
It’s certainly an odd situation now where people have become outright anti-fitness for whatever various reasons. And that makes what you do a harder task, but I’m glad you’re doing what you do, man. Health is a matter of interwoven layers, and supporting the physical reinforces the mental and emotional.
Personally, my immediate family went kinda stir-crazy during the lockdowns, until we picked up physical activities - gardening and lawn work for my sister, callisthenics and fencing for myself, pilates for everyone else. These also helped us get outside and enjoy a little more nature. I kinda slipped on the fitness train last year, and I wasn’t at my best physically before 2020, but now I’m really getting into something of a routine and I definitely feel better than I used to.
What you do is always important! Your skills and your knowledge and your platform on the Internet can help - and do help - spread the good word of fitness and improvement. That’s your gift to the world.
I’ll do what I can on my end to help, too.
Thanks for the video, Zack.
Reminder 40-60% of the Internet is fake, most of these goobers are stuffy dorks, but that doesn't give you a reason to be reactionary
Omg this 💪🏽🙌🏽. So many keyboard warriors. And lets not leave out how many people are not nattys to achieve a look that says im alpha and your not because i have a six pack.
I spent 14 years in the Army and 65 months in combat. I am 100% disabled, permanently and totally. I struggle with PTSD. I live 30 minutes from a gym. I still go 4x a week, because I get tf up at 5 am and DO IT. Medication is fine. Therapy mostly sucks, but it can work. If I didn't get physically active, I would have suck started a gun. People and their excuses and defeatist mentalities make me sick. Thank you ZT, NO EXCUSES, JUST IMPROVE
I feel bad for military people becoming disabled and having mental issues like PTSD, with the illusion of ''protecting'' ones country. Imagine spending billions of dollars in military just to get owned by a bunch of sandpeople with ak's, after a decade just leaving while the taliban take control within a few weeks.
I would never throw my life away for a bunch of rich jews.
This exactly shows how beneficial exercise is. Good job sir.
Thank you for your service, and that's awesome what fitness has done to your life. Amazing progress! Keep going!
@@ebinn6381 wow you covered quite the topics there and fell right into the expected bigot card
@@jasonscheffler9813I was with him until the first comma
Exercise is the ancient solution to many modern problems.
Well said. We need more people like you connecting the dots of where those in power want to take out society. We are clearly moving towards a “wall-e” society and those that reject will be shamed into compliance.
All I can say, Zack, is to keep fucking preaching! Watching your videos spurred me to start lifting in my 50's...and I'm damn happy about it! Much respect!
It takes patience, and integrity, to present the best possible evidence to date for fitness doing good - and get this response. I, we, trust you to get the message out. Never forget the silent majority - we will always be here
I stopped drinking this year, that was the first step to helping my depression. Today I am 296 days sober. The next step was to start doing calisthenics and working out. I was on SSRI's for my depression but stopped taking them about 2-3 months ago. I haven't felt this good in such a long time. People don't want to be personally responsible for ANY of their shortcomings but honestly, that's where I made most of my progress. I could go ahead and blame everything BUT me for the reason as to why I am the way I am but all that did was make excuses for my behavior and I never got any less depressed from it. It wasn't until I looked inward that I realized that most of my issues we're caused by me and the ones that weren't were things that I had no control over anyways so their really was no point in stressing over it. Self-mastery is the only real power anyone has and with that power comes responsibility.
swoleshaming is real bois and gals. we must face these difficulties and grow through it.
Thank you for your vulnerability and honesty. Keep hammering kid
This is a very important video, thank you for making it and starting the dialogue. I agree with you. Society is making everyone sedentary and physical fitness is absolutely necessary. Working out 100% has mental health benefits.
This. All of this dude. Keep up the good work. We appreciate you.
You realize all those things you just listed are habits as is fitness. Exercise/ going outside/ eating / changing people. Those are all habits and can be really challenging to change all at once. Not impossible but its hard. I know i was one of those people. This coming off as an absolute mandate. Its like telling someone you're poor stop being poor. Its not easy. For the first timer working out can be intimidating asF! Yeah Zach has it all together now, but even he was a newb once. We all have anxieties first time at a gym or a box. Go to a gym week 1 of January its packed. Go a few weeks later its back to normal. This is for sure a mental/confidence/habit issue. Have some empathy. Not everyone is in your unique situation. Today all your bros are jacked and social media influencers but that was not always the case. Some people are built that way and its take major effort to overcome this. Thanks for caring ❤
man this was awesome. absolutely awesome.
keep rocking dude.
(also post some more jiu jitsu. i know it's not your main thing but still, you're a great content creator)
Healthy Body, Healthy Mind
It sucks that so many people put so many barriers in the way of fitness. Literally don't even need a gym.
Great video Zack!!! Love the sims background music outro lol
Great video! More of this needs to be out there!
Loving the piano music from the original "The Sims" playing in the background. Also can say for myself at least that exercise is great for mental health. Discovering how much I love chasing deadlift PRs is honestly one of the best things that's ever happened to me.
Me in 2021: Sad, Depressed, alcoholic , want to unalive myself
Me in 2022: Im gonna move across the country, live with my friends and get absolutely yoked.
Me in 2023: Good paying job, living in a beautiful apartment, great friend group that keeps growing, sick physique that is getting sicker by the month. Still depressed but i dont want to off myself anymore.
I'm definitely walking and still living example of that exercising is crucial in overcoming depression and general feeling like absolute shieeet. I was going to therapy because of depression that was related to a sudden inability to exercise (due to many injuries), money problems, and feeling underachieved in my late 20s. For like 4 months of going to therapy it looked like it didn't go anywhere. I got fixed up injury-wise and started training again. Maaan the mood went rocket high when I did the first proper WL session. In maybe 4 months, Depression went from crushing bed laying nothing doing chocolate eating piece of crap to a dude that is smiling, caring for his wife, and has the motivation to achieve those things that caused late 20s crisis. Of course, I attended therapy and worked on my problems. But! In my opinion, if I didn't incorporate exercising, my progress would be so slow that most surely would stop going to therapy. Ladies and gents exercising IS really fucking important.
Thanks for great video ZAH
I have been wondering this for a while. I'm a leftist, so perhaps farther left than the average person in general. But, I am always confused why there are so few liberals/ left leaning moderates in the zeitgeist of fitness. Obviously there are left leaning people in the circle, but the vast majority of influencers who talk politics in fitness are conservative.
Because its painted as if you dont have a six pack train jiujitsu and go hunting (joe rogans crew) then you aint American and only the strong 💪🏽 are them. Its their mantra that they have adopted with a mega phone. I lift and do my thing but im not advocating for everyone to do it call them out if they dont. But im not left
Or
Right im just me
You're doing great work Zack. Love it.
This opened my eyes to a totally new and different beast to tackle in the fitness industry. Adding this to my "hit-list" of fitness topics.
What would that be?
I have Major Depression; anecdotally medication is a good disruptor. But for improvement: physical activity (even walking) > cognitive behavior therapy > medication. And there is zero reason not to do everything. If it's something like schizophrenia, which effects closee to 1% of Americans, physical activity is still helpful but not to the point of medication. If it's to the point of harm just get your ass or your loved one to a hospital, it's surprising how much just a few days of safety will help. Asking for help doesn't make you weak, it gives you a pathway to get stronger.
Ask the wrong person and they’ll see you as weak and take advantage of you though
@yoeyyoey8937 is true. Psychological health can have a huge stigma outside of medicine. Thanks, Hollywood. The first step should typically be seeking medical attention for stabilization. After that, a ton of depression is situational. I think a lot of it stems from "my life doesn't seem to be progressing where goals are being accomplished." Physical activity does release endorphins, which is going to make someone feel good, but most importantly, it provides short, medium, and long range goals which can be applied elsewhere in life. Having some amount of professional support can give a more objective assessment in how things are going and if certain activities are a detriment. Even solely relying on exercise could also become a detriment, but it's definitely a start at creating a holistic approach to well-being. Some people are just ignorant around this, and it's not entirely their fault. It is a complex issue.
@@drhjhulsebos you’re right it’s not their fault, there needs to be more emphasis on the benefits and how to attain them. Exercise itself helps balance hormones/neurotransmitters and puts you into a better mental space itself, and training with goals can help further provide structure and psychological momentum to one’s life. This should be a standard part of people’s treatment imo especially if the patient is otherwise treatment-resistant
I can understand that there are legitimate limitations in terms of accessibility, time, and overall societal issues that influence one’s ability to maintain fitness as a foundational part of life. But, from personal experience, I think that fitness can be a tool to not only combat the terrible effects of mental illness, but also as one of the most empowering and health gaining activities that you can practice in life. I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression for the majority of my life and the one thing that has given me true footing, a platform to make progress and succeed in areas outside of mental health is fitness. I will say that this took time! It took a true commitment on my part to allow my body and mind to adjust to the process of finding a routine and a rhythm. But once I did, I have seen such an improvement in my mental health. This is not to be thought of as a cure all, I still have days where I struggle. But if we have something so valuable that can be utilized to combat the overwhelming mental health disparities that we are facing, why wouldn’t exercise be utilized as much as possible when applicable? Love your channel Zack!
Fitness should be something that everyone does for themselves. That's why there's so many modalities, so many options. Funky man, even when I was a homeless drug addict, 3 days a week I would go do pushups and pullups at a playground while the kids were in school. When I got clean, I was mystified that the fat acceptance movement was rolling and that we had somehow agreed on a national level that self improvement was an activity for far right extremists. This is a sick sick society brother.
I'm with you Zack! Physical well being has an incredible effect on your mental well being. Both of these things make up the overall well being of an individual. Arguing the two are separate, or that it's impossible for people to get active because they don't have money or privilege is ridiculous. David Goggins has a great post out there for people making excuses as to why they can't change or get fit, and I quote; "Do you have a floor? Do some pushups! " It's that easy to get started. I guess people are more inclined to make excuses than to actually do something other than complain.
Proud supporter here….I support this message and the men behind it
ive a chronic pain condition caused by damaged nerves in the side of my head. Literally every day is pain either akin to a burning candle too close to my face or the delicate sensation of getting an electric shock to my temple. Daily.
Whats got me through and will continue to do so is fitness. It shows me despite my now lifelong condition i am alive. Who needs smelling salts in this life when i got nerve damage to wake me up lol.
But what really gets me is how silent it is. I get the gymbro talkdowns, random people saying that my enthusiasm for lifting weights is toxic, and an insult to disabled folks, despite my own disability being invisible.
For me this conditions allowed me to see true strength. Its our combined efforts in the gym but also our ability to deal with the unfairness of life. Be it from people or wonky nerves lol
Ty for a great video.
Going to the gym is the greatest mental therapy I have ever experienced in my 45 years on this earth. It's that simple.
Exercise helped me after my college sports career ended. It gave me confidence and structure to my life. I also gave my live to Jesus which made everything better. I will say that many of people's issues lie in the lack of community, purpose, and sense of accomplishment. I think most people are aware that exercise is good for them, however they have this notion that they have to be olympic athletes for it to be worth their while. I have people close to me that want to start and I tried to help. Their biggest obstacles are to overcome their former selves when they were at their peak. Others probably do need medication to get started, yet many professionals do not have a clue on how or where to start an exercise plan. The fitness culture is to blame here as well making outsiders get these crazy expectations and selling unrealistic goals.
This is a societal issue, 100% agree. One that requires a combined group and individual effort to truly address. Additionally, I think that anyone asserting that fitness or personal responsibility/accountability is a predominantly a conservative ideal is patently absurd, demonstratively false, and laughably out of touch with reality.
This is what I do for a living. Fitness in Recovery for mental Health and Substance use disorder. My organization (The Connection Project) and others like it (fit2recover SLC, The Phoenix Denver) know the benefits and are out there spreading the word. Others like Dr. John Rady and Treehouse recovery as well.
Oh, and zero federal funding for the fitness aspect.
this video is very important for the world,put a like to help it
Earlier this year my father experienced heart failure and then had two heart valves replaced. It put alot of stress on me to take care of him during the recovery period. It began weighing on my mental health. I got myself back into a gym routine and the stress and depression has now gone away. Exercise is powerful and everybody needs to do it.
The video of grizzly at the start made my day
How to deal with depression?
*SLAM*
“AAAAAAaaaaAAAAAAaaaaGGGGggggHHHHhhhhh!!!!!!!!”
Yeah that pretty much covers it
I did a study on this for my undergrad. It’s sadly under-utilised. Several theories why exercise is so effective; Endorphin hypothesis(exercise stimulates happy hormones), the self esteem hypothesis, where exercise is a mastery curve, allows us to see ourselves improve at something increasing self confidence/beliefs, and improved health + body image. Lastly excercise sometimes has a similar effect on the brain to meditation (flow states etc) which is also being studied for improvements on MH.The likelihood is that a combination of all have a great effect :)
Depression isn’t just chemicals in the brain. That’s missing the forest for the trees. Depression comes from the lack of power. The reason exercise helps depression isn’t because of serotonin release but that someone has set a goal and reached it and this release serotonin. Depression is so prevalent in industrialized society because many people have been rendered useless by machines. This is what gave rise to hobbies. Because people spend so much of their time doing useless tasks for work they need to do something to feel a sense of power and accomplishment. Lifting weights being a huge a growing hobby for people in developed countries.
While most of these people are obviously coping with their lack of fitness, I think it's important to recognise that when you are truly depressed, it feels like you are massively exhausted, leaving little space for physical activity. This is backed by the current understanding of clinical depression. I just hope people who never had depression empathise with that, I definitely had to get better mentally first before starting to be diligent with gym.
yeah, i love working out, but I have to be at least somewhat ok to do it, or rather the fact that I've started means that I'm already better (and then the benefits stack up). When I have an episode, when life is a constant pain, when I don't care if I died right there (or would even prefer it that way), and the only thing that gives me relief is sleep, exercising is a completely abstract idea. Then again if you're in that state or worse you probably don't partake in studies too often
Yeah depressed people need to just workout, not push themselves to the brink. When you're down and out a chill half sad 50% effort work out is good enough. People, especially those who don't exercise regularly, think going to the gym means 2 hours of nonstop pain and puking every day. 30 minutes of easy cardio is enough
also idk how to phrase this, but I mean there are active people (either who exercise or do physical labor) who are depressed, of course they would most likely have been worse off lying in bed all day, but it's not like being active makes them immune. (not saying that Zack said something like that i'm just rambling)
This is like saying “if you don’t vacuum, it can feel like you’re stepping on a million different things”. Well obviously, I’d be depressed too if I didn’t workout. There’s endorphins, hormones, etc that are conversely related to exercise and depression. If you don’t vacuum, you’ll feel the crumbs on the ground.
@@DarthBane-zf8wv I think you're missing the fact that you can work out and still become clinically depressed, which would then make you not want to work out. Saying " I’d be depressed too if I didn’t workout" dismisses all the other factors that can cause depression.
some people would rather be miserable and make up faults for positive things. i think it's great that you're addressing their non-arguments, and it's clear that you're passionate about fitness and helping others. i guess i wanna say don't take it personal. i bet a lot of the negative comments were for their own benefit than anything. hopefully one day they'll find it worthwhile to invest in their health and see that you were right all along.
My name is Daniel Lugo. And I believe in fitness.
Zack! It's format and its social media. I dont think the disagreement you have with your comment section would happen any other way.
Your caption relatively neutral put out a proposition that is as close to being fact as any research hypothesis could ever hope to be (Meta-analysis of RCT with n >100.000) and because its social media people have insert themselves and add-on and scrutinize.
I feel as if it's psychologically difficcult for someone in social media to take such a fact at face value and move the conversation in constructive direction with that fact in mind.
Simply tell the haters “post physique”
lol
Bro theres guys getting jacked with homemade equipment in their impoverished West African village. (To be fair west Africans have the best genes for building muscle mass) The idea that you need all this material prosperity and support to be fit is bs.
Genes don’t matter. People are doing this all over. I used to do this years back. No excuses
I've been having some mental issues for the last year, and I'm seeing a therapist to help me through them. But that said, honestly, my one hour daily exercise sesh is one of the few things that keep me going every day. There's nothing like lifting heavy to remind you that, despite your insecurities, you can do it
I think the whole like 'right wing' 'fitness/gym bro/girl' thing is due to the fact that it takes lot of self control, self respect and discipline, something which often isn't found on 'the other sides' of the political spectrum. Self accountability and action? Wow, so radical.. it's sad society has got to this point.
I think most people here are missing the point, no one is saying fitness is bad, just that when society is built in a way that heavily encourages sedentarism, it's going to take societal changes to change this reality. Just pointing out that exercise is good and that you as an individual should go do it is not gonna cut it, and so governments should invest more into physical health for the population, which is what zack was promoting. I don't know where the "if you're fit you're a trump supporter" stuff came from as no one said anything like this
Exercise is free. Just step outside and walk as fast as you can handle.
It really is a shame most people that left a comment on that post won't watch this video. Great points, Zac
I've struggled with moderate depression my entire life and exercising is such a huge part of my treatment. I'm still depressed pretty much 24/7, but it's crazy what an impact it can have, especially when I'm deep in the hole.
I spent two weeks recently where I was so deep in the hole, and wasn't speaking to anyone, couldn't focus, etc. Friend agreed to try out a powerlifting routine, so just putting together a bench day workout alone I started lifting out of the hole a bit. We hit the workout the next day, and compared to the past two weeks I was feeling like a million bucks for the day afterwards.
I think you're spot on that when anyone advocates for anything, people automatically assume that because you advocate for that thing you must be picking a side and are against anything else. Just because we advocate for the use of exercise for mental health does not somehow mean we are saying you shouldn't go to therapy or use medication. Those may be useful tools as well but so too is exercise and it should be no sooner overlooked than other tools. Everyone's case is going to be different, some people are in a real bad spot and even with every one of those tools it can take lots of time to get better but that is all the more reason to do your best to use every tool available which includes exercise! To me that accessibility argument in the one IG comment is also ridiculous, you could say the same things for therapy or medications being potentially inaccessible. Disabilities are one thing but if you are able and simply lack the funds to access a gym, you certainly lack the funds for therapy! In a better society all of these things would be free to access for everybody but even as it stands, exercise, bar having disabilities, is anything but inaccessible in one form or another. Even if you don't have a gym or a park to go to there are always at least some things you can do at home and anything is infinitely better than nothing.
I know this is purely anecdotal, but without medical intervention I would literally be dead right now. I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression for nearly my entire life. I’m also in the gym 5 times a day and stay physically active while I’m outside the gym.
For years I was told I just needed to get out more. Be grateful. Take more walks. Get more sun. ON TOP of all the physical activities I was already doing. I put off getting help because I felt like it was my fault for not doing enough. Seeing a therapist or getting on medication would make me “weak.” I was the failure for not being able to cure myself. I was at my peak physical fitness when I tried to end it all.
I believe in the importance of physical activity, but it’s not always the answer to all problems.Telling people that all they need is a nice jog in the sunshine can also do a lot of harm and keep them from getting the help they need. Sometimes people need medical help and there’s no shame in that.
My parents are immigrants and came here to do exactly what that meme showed. We are so lucky in this country. If you want more, go after it, cabrones!
Has a disabled lifter, I completely agree, fitness has been instrumental not only in my physical recovery, but much more in my mental health, my depression is greatly alleviated by fitness and that’s saying a lot considering I have a severe neurodegenerative condition that is very hard to live with mentally.
Statements about mental health trigger people who struggle with that. Almost always the turning point of therapy was for me when I accepted that I was the Problem at a deeper Level. For that you have to be accountable so I can See why people who struggle with mental health try not to be accountable regarding Fitness, finding excuses along the way
Amazing analysis thanks for sharing
These people must feel so depressed, thinking there is nothing in their control that can improve their life. Glad thats not my core philosophy.
Unfortunately mental health has become another buzz word of the day. Mental health is a vague concept to begin with and one that changes with time - please check out the major controversies regarding DSM-5 mental health guide and the "medicalizing" of behaviors. Exercise isn't going to make mental issues go away but it does provide a way for people to make changes and improve their body and mind. But...in today's modern world people have to get likes and views and what better way than to try and be "controversial"
That's cool, but where is the background from?
Last few years I lost a business and am trying to keep another one I'm involved with alive. It's been hard. I've spent nearly a year overseas to do this over 2023, away from family, friends, cool toys, beautiful countryside I live in, etc.. And not long before I left, I started back into gyming. I did in past 6-7 years bodybuilding over a decade ago. Now after 7 months or so I gained 15kg/30lbs dirty bulking, cutting down and I'm another 2-3kg heavier again and bigger than I ever have been and ever fitter too! NO PEDs. Just diet, only recently got on whey protein (wow, so radical). Bit of a unit now lol 6'1 220+ of unit :D. This has given me better discipline in business and personal life, ticking off projects and getting patents and things like that. Healthy, disciplined body means your mind will be similar :) It needs a base and if you give your brain that base, you'll perform better than without.
I'm all over the place politically but definitely pushed more right over the last few years as the loud minority amplified by koshersocial media gets literally 'padded walls' insane. Funny how that happens.
The best thing I ever did was find my way to a gym and some how get it right. I stopped being depressed and everything has improved for me by taking on weight training with the goal of strength and personal improvement being all I was after. I can't say enough good things about fitness being included as part of a larger strategy to fight depression, anxiety and all sorts of mental health issues.