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Two people leave their respective houses to drive to the local gym. One has just had an argument with their other half and speeds off in a rage. The other person jokes with a neighbour before setting off on a leisurely drive, singing along to a song on the radio. Which of the two do you think had the more productive workout? A bad mood usually equals bad concentration and a bad workout, and might even lead to an injury. Nothing much you can do about your moods? Sure there is. Here are a few top tips...
Get to sleep
You will know how irritable you can be if you haven't had enough sleep ('enough' being as little as four hours for some, nine or ten for others). Some lucky people can sleep anytime, anyplace, but if you struggle to get a good night's sleep, things you could try include: a new mattress; avoiding caffeinated drinks in the evening; and aromatherapy - for example, a few drops of lavender essential oil in a night-time bath (always read the labels before using essential oils - they are not suitable for everyone). If the problem is more serious, your GP should be able to help.
Watch what you eat
You might not have realized that there is a link between your diet and your moods. This link is partly due to the influence diet has on energy levels; in general, a lot of energy makes for an enthusiastic mood (and a lack of energy makes for an unenthusiastic mood). One thing that will help is making sure you eat an hour or two before the workout. Though go for a carbohydrate snack rather than a table-busting dinner.
Have a laugh
Laughter, as they say, is the best medicine. Watching a favourite comedy video or listening to a comedy audiocassette for a few minutes is an effective way of encouraging yourself into a positive mood. Of course, this is not always possible before a workout, but simply sharing a joke with someone will benefit your mood in a similar way.
Move that body
Changing your body posture helps to change your mood accordingly. Even if the change in posture feels awkward to start with, soon it will feel completely natural, as will the new mood. To help with this, close your eyes and see yourself in your mind's eye in the mood you would like to be in (relaxed, determined, whatever), take careful note of the posture and facial expression, then open your eyes and adopt this body language in reality. Try to remove any posture or expression that encourages a negative mood - for instance; don't let your shoulders hunch up or your face scowl. Wearing 'professional' clothing is another important factor. As everyone knows, if you think you look good, you feel good. Which can only help in your quest for the best mood for your workout.
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Author: Darren Ward
Copyright www.exercise.co.uk
2001
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Copyright Exercise, Fitness & Leisure 2001
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