Why a regular fitness routine helps manage ADHD symptoms

When most people think about exercise, they probably don’t think about its potential to help with mental health conditions like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

However, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests that regular physical activity can indeed help alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD in adults.

Let’s take a look at how exercise can help and some tips on how to get started.

Exercise and ADHD: How Does It Work?

There are a few different theories about how exercise helps to manage ADHD symptoms.

One theory suggests that exercise increases levels of neurotransmitters, like dopamine, in the brain. Dopamine is known to be linked to concentration and motivation, two things that are often lacking in people with ADHD. Another theory focuses on the fact that exercise generally requires planning and goal-setting.

For people with ADHD, these skills don’t come naturally. But by participating in a regular fitness routine, they can learn to set goals and stick to a plan. This can help them in other areas of their life as well, like at work or school.

Exercise and ADHD Symptoms

One of the main symptoms of ADHD is difficulty concentrating. If you have trouble focusing on tasks at work or home, starting a regular exercise routine can help.

Exercise also increases levels of norepinephrine, a chemical that helps modulate attention and focus. Research shows that people with ADHD who engage in regular physical activity have an easier time paying attention and staying on task. Exercise can also improve working memory and executive function, both of which are important for people with ADHD.

So how exactly does exercise help with ADHD? One way is by providing an outlet for excess energy. People with ADHD often have difficulty sitting still or focusing on one task for extended periods of time. This can lead to restlessness, fidgeting, and squirming, which can be disruptive both at home and at work. Exercise provides a way to release this excess energy in a constructive way.

In addition, exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality, which is often an issue for people with ADHD. Poor sleep can exacerbate ADHD symptoms such as impulsivity and irritability.

And finally, regular physical activity has been shown to boost mood and self-esteem, both of which can be low in individuals with ADHD.

Tips for Getting Started

If you’re thinking about starting an exercise routine to help manage your ADHD symptoms, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, start small and gradually increase the frequency and intensity of your workouts as you become more comfortable.

It’s also important to find an activity that you enjoy so that you’re more likely to stick with it long-term.

For some people, this may mean joining a team sport or taking up running or biking; for others, it may simply mean going for walks around the neighborhood.

There is no “right” way to exercise; the key is just to find something that works for you.

Manage expectations

If you’re new to exercise, it’s important to manage your expectations so you don’t get discouraged and give up too soon.

Remember that it takes time to see results from any type of new fitness routine; don’t expect overnight miracles when it comes to managing your ADHD symptoms through exercise!

It may take several weeks or even months before you start to notice a difference in your attention span or focus levels; be patient and consistent with your workouts, and eventually you will start to see (and feel) results!