The Benefits of Exercise for Addiction Recovery

Exercise is a powerful force for the human body. Many people are realizing the benefits of using exercise as an aid for recovery from addiction. Exercise is easy to do, structures your day, helps your body, and improves your sense of well-being. You can benefit immensely from adding exercise into your recovery program.

Simple

One of the best things about working out is that it doesn’t have to be complicated. Even just taking a walk counts as a form of exercise. One can run, lift weights, or participate in a sport. Whether you are training for a specific goal, such as running a marathon, or simply getting outside and moving around every day, you will be helping yourself positively.

Structure

Another great reason to exercise is that it can provide structure to your day. You can decide on a set workout schedule, or sign up for a class at your local gym. Having set times to work out can be very helpful for avoiding participating in the behavior you are are trying to avoid – needing to get up and go for a run in the morning, for example, might make you think twice before drinking the night before.

General Health and Attitude Benefits

Perhaps the most obvious benefit to incorporating exercise into your recovery plan is that it will increase both your physical and mental health. Exercise has been shown to provide a positive feeling to one’s life, not only because it increases health, but also because it gives a general sense of control and well-being.

Whether you are just out of rehab or simply trying to avoid temptation, exercise can be a powerful force for addiction recovery.