Physical activity and smoking cessation

There is considerable evidence to suggest that physical activity has a role to play in helping people to give up smoking. This is especially the case in terms of dealing with the first stage of dealing with cravings. Periods of exercise can be used to counter withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Physical activity also meets the concerns of people on the brink of quitting smoking with regards to added weight gain.

Crucially physical activity has also been seen to improve self esteem and reduce anxiety and depression – typical feelings of someone going through the process of kicking the habit.

This explains why someone on the brink of giving up is naturally drawn toward exercise as a vital outlet – after all, it is very rare that you will encounter anyone smoking on a treadmill.