How Fitness Can Help Manage Stress and Improve Your Mood
I don’t know about you, but some weeks feel like they’re never-ending. Between running a business, looking after my little boy and somehow still trying to find time for myself, life can get full-on. And when the stress starts piling up, the last thing I feel like doing is exercising.
But you know what? It’s the one thing that always makes me feel better and for me, it is now an a non-negotiable on those stressful days.
The Overwhelm is Real
If you’re anything like me, juggling work, family, and life admin can feel like a constant balancing act. One minute you’re deep in emails, the next you’re a human taxi service for after-school clubs, and somewhere in between, you’re supposed to cook, clean, and actually relax (ha!). It’s no wonder stress levels go through the roof.
And it’s not just mums who feel it. Whether you’re working long hours, running your own business, or just trying to keep up with everything, stress finds a way to creep in.
Why Exercise is the Ultimate Stress-Buster
Here’s the thing—movement changes everything. It’s not just about getting stronger or fitter (though that’s a bonus), it’s about giving your mind a break. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins (aka the “feel-good” hormones), which are basically like nature’s own stress relief.
The Mental Health Foundation found “Physical activity has a huge potential to enhance our well-being. Even a short burst of 10 minutes of brisk walking increases our mental alertness, energy and positive mood. Participation in regular physical activity can increase our self-esteem and can reduce stress and anxiety.”
Further to this, they found that exercise played a role in PREVENTING the development of mental health problems. But it’s not just the science that proves it. I’ve felt it first hand. There have been weeks where I’ve been so overwhelmed, but after a session on the Reformer, a sweaty bootcamp or even just a long walk—boom, my head feels clearer, my patience is back, and suddenly, I feel like I can handle life again.
The Knock-On Effect of Prioritising Movement
When you make exercise part of your routine, everything else benefits too:
- Better mood – You know those days where everything feels too much? A workout can turn it around in 30 minutes.
- More patience – Whether it’s the kids arguing or another work email that makes you want to scream, you’ll handle it better if you’ve had that stress outlet.
- More energy – It sounds backwards, but moving your body actually helps beat exhaustion.
- Better sleep – Less tossing and turning at night means waking up feeling ready instead of running on empty.
Getting the Kids Involved: A Win-Win for Everyone
One of the best things I’ve done for my own sanity? Bringing my son along to the gym. Whether they’re exercising alongside you, playing nearby, or just watching and soaking it all in, it makes a world of difference.
It’s so easy to feel guilty about taking time for yourself, but the truth is—kids seeing you prioritise movement is a gift to them too. They grow up knowing exercise is just a normal part of life, not a chore. Plus, let’s be real, getting them out of the house and burning off energy? Absolute gold.
And then there’s the social side of it. A quick chat with friends at a class, stepping out of the same four walls on a rainy day, even just having a moment to yourself while the kids are entertained—it’s all part of why fitness is about more than just working out. At Revive, we love that parents can bring their little ones along, so you can get your workout in without the stress of sorting childcare.
"Exercise Gave Me My Energy Back" – Lisa’s Story
“As a full-time working mum of three, life is a non-stop cycle of school runs, meetings and washing endless loads of PE kits. I used to feel way too busy to work out and honestly, I thought adding exercise to my schedule would just make me even more exhausted. But after I started coming to classes a couple of times a week, I noticed a huge shift. I had more energy, I slept better and most importantly, I started feeling like me again. The best part? That shift had a ripple effect. My husband saw the difference and started training too. Suddenly, we weren’t just getting through the week—we were actually enjoying it. Now, exercise is part of our routine and I can’t imagine life without it.”
Making Time for You Isn’t Selfish, It’s Necessary
Look, I get it. Finding time for exercise feels impossible some days. But the truth is, looking after yourself makes everything else easier. Ever noticed how after a workout, the little things that were stressing you out don’t seem quite as bad? That overwhelming to-do list feels more manageable, your patience with the kids magically returns and even work emails feel less annoying. That’s because exercise isn’t just about physical fitness—it’s about resetting your mindset.
When you move your body, you burn off stress and clear mental clutter. And the knock-on effect? Better sleep, more motivation, and a more positive outlook. One good workout can set you up to sleep deeper that night, which means you wake up feeling refreshed instead of drained. And when you wake up energised, you’re more likely to eat better, make time for yourself and generally tackle the day with a bit more oomph.
You don’t need hours in the gym. A 30-minute workout, a walk in the fresh air or a quick Pilates session at home—it all counts. The hardest part? Just starting. But trust me, once you do, you’ll never regret it.
Let’s Get Moving
If stress is weighing you down, I promise you—moving your body will help improve your mood. You don’t have to do it alone either. Whether it’s a high-energy HIIT class, a mindful Pilates session or just getting outside, we’re here to help you find what works for you.
Because, honestly? Life’s too short to be running on empty. Let’s fill your cup, one workout at a time. ❤️
