What’s new and different about the kind of exercise in the LEVITY Program?
A. The program uses short-duration (20 minutes), moderate-intensity exercise, which research now shows is the best mood booster of all. While more vigorous exercise is better at improving cardiovascular fitness and burning calories, it is less effective at relieving depression and anxiety. In fact, high-intensity exercise can even add to a person’s stress level. (It produces what researchers call “tense arousal” rather than the more desirable “energetic arousal.”) Another new finding is that you only have to exercise for 20 minutes a day to experience a marked change in mood and energy level. Surprisingly, exercising for a longer period of time gives you no further mood benefits. If you’re exercising to feel good, 20 minutes is enough! In my work with patients, I’ve learned that this amount of exercise can be added to even the most hectic schedule. This is a “no excuses” program. Q. Why is exercising outdoors such an important part of the program? A. When people exercise outdoors durin
