Title: Exercise Psychology: Understanding the Mental Health Benefits of Physical Activity and the Public Health Challenges of Inactivity
Abstract: Regular physical activity is important for optimal physical and mental health. Furthermore, physical inactivity has been identified as a leading cause of death (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1996). However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Barnes, 2007) have reported that fewer than 50% of Americans participate in regular physical activity. This information highlights the public health challenge of increasing participation in physical activity to enhance physical health and to buoy the psychological benefits associated with physical activity.This chapter presents a brief synopsis of the evidence that compels the study of exercise psychology. In addition, as a basis for assimilating the content of subsequent chapters, this chapter includes explanations for terms often used in exercise psychology, important methodological and conceptual clarifications, and a preface to the topics addressed throughout this text.
Publication Year: 2012
Publication Date: 2012-05-11
Language: en
Type: book
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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Cited By Count: 4
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