Stress can make you feel like a volcano -- bubbling up until you finally blow. You do not have to feel this way. Consider starting an exercise program that uses exercise equipment to relieve stress. Exercise offers many benefits, including increasing feel-good neurotransmitters in your brain called endorphins and in improving your overall mood, according to MayoClinic.com. If your doctor has cleared you to begin an exercise program, incorporate these different exercise equipment modes of stress relief.
Step 1
Warm up your muscles for three to five minutes before engaging in activity. You can walk, jog in place or perform jumping jacks to warm up and prevent injury.
Step 2
Hit and kick a punching bag for a vigorous aerobic workout, according to Dr. Gabe Mirkin, a physician and radio talk show host on his website, DrMirkin.com. Grab some boxing gloves or wraps and hit a heavy punching bag or speed bag at the gym. Begin by punching for three to five minutes, then increase your endurance to 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 3
Use a Pilates Reformer machine to relieve stress and tone or stretch the body, according to Pilates Insight. The Reformer uses spring resistance attached to the hands and legs to stretch the muscles. You may require some initial instruction to understand how to use the machine, but once you are more comfortable, you can exercise on the Reformer independently.
Step 4
Cycle outside or on your stationary bicycle to provide a stress-relieving adventure, according to MayoClinic.com. Begin by cycling for 15 minutes, then increase up to 45 minutes. Slip on some headphones and listen to music or just enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Step 5
Climb on a stair climber or outdoor stairs for 15 minutes if you are a beginner and up to 30 minutes if you are more advanced, according to MayoClinic.com. This vigorous aerobic activity helps to burn calories while easing stress.
Step 6
Cool down when you conclude your exercise routine by stretching the muscles worked and bringing down your heart rate. This will help to reduce muscle soreness post-workout.
Tips and Warnings
- When you are starting a stress-relieving exercise routine, it is important to carve out some time each day to use the exercise equipment that helps to relieve stress, according to MayoClinic.com. If you are particularly busy, having this time scheduled can ensure you meet your exercise goals.
Things You'll Need
- Punching bag
- Gloves or hand wraps
- Bicycle
- Bicycle helmet
- Pilates Reformer
- Stair climber
