A recent scientific study has found that maintaining strong cardiorespiratory fitness—often achieved through daily running—may significantly reduce anxiety and anger during stressful situations.
Researchers at the Federal University of Goiás in Brazil examined how the body’s ability to efficiently deliver oxygen during physical activity influences emotional responses.
The study involved 40 healthy young men divided into two groups: one with above-average fitness levels and another below average. Participants were exposed to neutral and distressing images designed to trigger emotional stress, including threatening and injury-related scenes.
While all participants experienced increased tension after viewing negative images, the higher-fitness group remained noticeably calmer and more emotionally stable. In contrast, individuals with lower fitness levels were found to be 775% more likely to experience sharp increases in anxiety and anger.
The findings were published in the scientific journal Acta Psychologica. The lead researcher emphasized that improving cardiorespiratory fitness could be a key strategy in strengthening emotional resilience and supporting mental health.
The study adds to growing evidence that regular physical activity, such as running or brisk walking, benefits not only physical health but also psychological well-being.
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