University’s latest Psychology of... podcast focuses on fitness benefits
With this week marking National Fitness Day on Wednesday, September 24, the University of Chester psychology team has returned to the podcast studio to explore the physical, social and mental benefits of exercise.
The team – who will soon be recording a series of podcasts on the new Celebrity Traitors series when it airs on the BBC in October – discussed in the latest episode of the Psychology of... series how social media is influencing people to take up exercise, how regular exercise can boost the brain, and the importance of getting rest and recovery in between intensive workouts.
Joining regular host, senior lecturer Dr Clea Wright, were fellow Psychology senior lecturers Dr Annie Scudds and Dr Nic Lasikiewicz, along with fitness instructor at the University Chris Murphy.
The 30-minute podcast revealed that regular exercise, in the long term, can lead to improved brain activity through new neurons and neuron connections. The team also discussed the range of social media influences that spur people on to getting fitter, from ‘wanting an Instagram body’ to positive TikTok trends, as well as the social benefits from exercising with other people.
Clea said: “Continuing our series of podcasts following the positive response we had to the successful Psychology of...The Traitors, we’ve been exercising our creative muscles by turning to a range of other popular topics. With September 24 marking National Fitness Day, we felt it appropriate to share views and research on the Psychology of...Fitness and Exercise.
“It was great to hear the views of Annie and Nic, plus a special thanks to personal trainer Chris for sharing his insights on what motivates people to take up exercise, and when rest periods can be considered training too.
“Our team is now looking forward to the new Celebrity Traitors series, where we’ll be keenly watching and providing analysis with our weekly podcasts!”
To listen to the latest podcast, please visit the Psychology of...profile on Spotify.
BBC’s Celebrity Traitors series is due to air its first episode on October 8. Previous series of The Traitors are available to watch on BBC iPlayer, while the Psychology of...The Traitors is available to listen on Spotify.
For more information on Psychology at the University of Chester, please visit: https://www.chester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/psychology/.