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Every Friday on The Verywell Mind Podcast, Editor-in-Chief Amy Morin, LCSW, shares the “Friday Fix”—a short episode featuring a quick, actionable tip or exercise to help you manage a specific mental health issue or concern.

Friday Fix: Episode 192

You may find yourself thinking you need more mental strength so you can go to the gym. But what if the opposite were true? You need to go to the gym to build mental strength.

Most people focus on the physical muscle they build from exercise. But, physical activity is also a great way to build mental muscle. 

You also don’t need to do torturous workouts that prove you can stand pain (a common myth about mental strength training). Sometimes, a few simple physical activities might be enough to help you feel better, think clearer, and gain motivation.

Fortunately, you don’t necessarily need a gym membership to bolster your mental strength. There are plenty of physical activities you can do from home or outside to build mental strength.

From taking a walk in nature to reduce symptoms of depression to practicing yoga to relieve symptoms of PTSD, moving your body is really good for your mind.

On this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast, I explain five physical activities–from walking to weight lifting–and discuss the science behind how these strategies build mental strength.

Don’t wait until you develop a mental illness to get moving, though. Physical activity can also prevent some mental health issues and bolster your mental strength. 

More About the Podcast

The Verywell Mind Podcast is available across all streaming platforms. If you like the show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts.

Reviews and ratings are a great way to encourage other people to listen and help them prioritize their mental health too.

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Editor’s Note: Please be mindful that this transcript does not go through our standard editorial process and may contain inaccuracies and grammatical errors. Thank you. 

For media or public speaking inquiries, contact Amy here.

Download the Transcript

Links and Resources

  • Follow Amy Morin on Instagram

  • Check out Amy’s books on mental strength

  • Friday Fix: What to Put in Your Calendar to Reduce Depression

  • Eat to Beat Depression & Anxiety With Psychiatrist Drew Ramsey

  • The Science Behind Doing Hard Things With Human Performance Expert Steve Magness