What's Happening?
Vicky Pattison, known for her appearances on Women's Health and Strictly, has been focusing on exercise as a means to enhance her wellbeing rather than just physical fitness. Her trainer, Robbie Thompson, emphasizes the importance of exercise for mental health, particularly in managing conditions like Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). Pattison's workout routine is designed to improve mood, energy, and positivity through regular physical activity. The regimen includes strength training three to four times a week, focusing on major muscle groups and progressive overload to build muscle strength over time. Thompson has shared a four-week program from Pattison's training plan, which includes exercises like Romanian deadlifts, dumbbell shoulder presses, and barbell bent-over rows.
Why It's Important?
The emphasis on exercise for mental health highlights a growing trend in fitness where the psychological benefits are considered as important as the physical ones. Pattison's approach to fitness, which prioritizes mental wellbeing, could influence others to adopt similar practices, potentially leading to improved mental health outcomes for many. This focus on holistic health can benefit individuals suffering from conditions like PMDD, offering them a non-medical avenue for symptom management. Additionally, the structured workout plan provides a practical guide for women seeking to enhance their physical and mental health through exercise.
What's Next?
As Pattison continues to advocate for exercise as a tool for mental health, it is likely that more fitness programs will incorporate mental health benefits into their offerings. This could lead to collaborations between fitness professionals and mental health experts to develop comprehensive wellness programs. Furthermore, Pattison's influence may encourage more women to engage in regular physical activity, potentially leading to broader societal shifts in how exercise is perceived and utilized for mental health.
Beyond the Headlines
The integration of mental health into fitness routines raises important ethical considerations about the accessibility of such programs. Ensuring that these benefits are available to diverse populations, including those with limited access to fitness facilities, is crucial. Additionally, the focus on mental health in fitness could lead to increased research into the psychological impacts of exercise, potentially influencing public health policies and initiatives.
