How Does Physical Activity Affect the Brain and Energy Levels?

What is Physical Fitness?

Physical fitness is an integral characteristic of the body, reflecting its ability to efficiently exchange energy with the environment, ensuring the optimal functioning of the nervous system, hormonal system, and cognitive processes. Maintaining good physical activity supports this balance and keeps the body and mind energized.

Why the Brain Sees Exercise as Work, Not Pleasure?

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The brain perceives exercise as work because it requires discipline, control of movements, focus, and a significant energy expenditure.

For example, while scrolling social media or eating sweets, the brain receives easy, low-effort pleasure — a simple dopamine reward.

At the beginning of a workout, pleasurable sensations are usually absent. Enjoyment comes later, when endorphins, dopamine, serotonin are released — in simple terms, the “happiness hormones”.

The Benefits of Being Physically Fit.

The body, energy, and mind function as a unified system. When cells work properly and blood circulation is good, the brain receives high-quality signals, energy levels rise, thoughts become clearer, and we handle stress more effectively.

The body becomes more energetic, immunity strengthens, the risk of chronic diseases decreases, and we better perceive the signals of our body, helping to maintain overall health.

How to Motivate Yourself to Exercise:

• Choose activities you enjoy: Dancing, walking, games, or group exercises.

• Consistency is more important than intensity: do short workouts every other day instead of overexerting yourself once a week.

• Reward yourself after workouts: Music, a shower, or a light snack — your brain links movement with pleasure.

• Listen to your body: Avoid overtraining so energy can flow through your body without harming your mental or physical health.