Scientists reveal unexpected secret of stress resistance

# Physically Fit People Handle Stress Better: New Research **Regular workouts strengthen not only the heart and muscles — they can make a person more emotionally resilient. This discovery was made by Brazilian scientists who published their work in the journal Acta Psychologica.** The experiment involved 40 healthy young volunteers. Researchers divided them into two groups based on cardiorespiratory fitness level: above average and below average. During different sessions, participants were shown either neutral images — ordinary household objects — or unpleasant ones — scenes of injuries and threatening situations, specifically selected to provoke stress and negative emotions. Then the scientists measured anxiety and anger levels. The results were revealing: everyone experienced tension when viewing disturbing images. However, physically fit people demonstrated significantly smaller spikes in anxiety and anger. A striking fact: participants with low fitness had a 775% higher risk of transitioning from moderate anxiety to high anxiety. A similar pattern emerged regarding anger. People with low physical fitness levels showed sharper spikes in irritation and had poorer emotional control. The pattern was clear: the lower the fitness level — the higher the likelihood of an impulsive reaction to stressful stimuli. Scientists suggest that regular training builds not only physical but also psychological resilience. Discipline and systematic exercise likely train self-regulation mechanisms, helping to better control anxiety and anger. The study authors noted: physical activity can be considered as a potential non-pharmacological strategy for managing anger and anxiety. However, larger-scale studies are needed for final confirmation of these findings.