Physical Activity and Subjective Wellbeing

Abstract

The idea, ‘exercise is good for you’, is so ingrained in Western thinking it has the status of lore. Moreover, since the time of the Romans, this belief has applied to both physical and mental health: A healthy mind in a healthy body. But is exercise really good for subjective wellbeing and, if so, why? While the general impression conveyed by the quality of life literature is that the aphorism does indeed apply to subjective wellbeing, looks can be deceiving. In fact, much of the supportive literature is based on methodologically weak studies presented in the absence of testable theory. This essay examines the literature from a critical methodological perspective coupled with current understanding of subjective wellbeing. Central to this examination is the theory of subjective wellbeing homeostasis. The view that emerges is one where the positive relationship between physical activity and subjective wellbeing is due mainly to facilitated social relationships. The implications of this understanding for the enhancement of life quality are substantial.