Exercise Consultant Recommends Aerobics for Stress Relief

By Solomon Nartey Tetteh

Exercise Consultant, Kwesi Sam Acquah, has advocated for increased participation in aerobic exercises as a natural and effective method of managing stress. According to him, aerobic exercises enhance blood circulation, which contributes significantly to lowering stress levels. Ghana, like many other countries, continues to face challenges in effective stress management, due in part to limited mental health infrastructure and a lack of awareness around holistic coping mechanisms.

Speaking on Zed Wellness Link on Zed FM, Mr. Acquah highlighted the numerous health benefits of physical activity, particularly its role in improving mental well-being.

“Whenever you’re exercising, the activity works on the brain and helps it secrete these hormones, making you feel good about yourself. That’s one way physical activity can alleviate stress,” he stated.

In addition to aerobics, Mr. Acquah recommended other stress-reducing activities such as stretching, yoga, and pilates. he noted that these exercises promote mindfulness by encouraging individuals to focus on their movements and bodily sensations, thus drawing attention away from stressors.

“There’s a kind of mindfulness in these activities. Whether you’re stretching your arms, legs, or trunk, you become aware of your body. This self-focus is key in managing stress,” he said.

He emphasized, however, that enjoyment of the activity is crucial to reaping its full benefits.

“It’s important that you enjoy the exercise. That’s what really helps you relax and gain all the health benefits,” he stressed.

Mr. Acquah explained that engaging in such physical activity stimulates the release of endorphins commonly referred to as “feel-good hormones”, while simultaneously suppressing stress-inducing hormones like cortisol. As stress-related health issues continue to rise, experts like has stressed that Ghanaians should embrace physical activity not only for fitness, but also as a key component of emotional and psychological well-being.