WEIGHT-LIFTING THERAPY - A PRELIMINARY-REPORT

Research suggests that exercise has beneficial effects on the psycholo gical well-being of individuals with psychiatric disabilities. Most st udies on exercise and mental health have focused on aerobic exercise w ith moderately psychiatrically disturbed individuals. This study exami ned the effects of anaerobic exercise (weight lifting) on the psycholo gical well-being of individuals with serious psychiatric disabilities. Five female clients in a psychosocial rehabilitation program particip ated in weight lifting classes for eight weeks. All reported improveme nt in physical and psychological well-being. Clients demonstrated sign ificant improvement in objective measures of strength and endurance.