Free Health Updates
Skip to main content
Table of Contents
< All Topics
Print

What role does exercise play in reducing impulsivity? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Exercise and impulsivity are closely linked, especially when it comes to managing ADHD symptoms. Physical activity can have a profound impact on impulse control and overall ADHD symptoms. Regular exercise helps regulate brain chemistry, improve self-control, and reduce the intensity of impulsive behaviours often seen in individuals with ADHD. Incorporating physical activity into daily routines can be a natural and effective tool for managing impulsivity. 

Try an online ADHD test

How Exercise Helps Reduce Impulsivity 

Exercise not only improves physical health but also plays a key role in enhancing mental well-being and managing impulsive behaviours. Here’s how physical activity can help: 

Regulation of Brain Chemistry 

Engaging in regular physical activity increases the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are critical for regulating attention and impulsivity. These chemicals help improve ADHD symptoms and promote better emotional regulation, making it easier for individuals to control impulsive behaviours. Exercise, therefore, helps the brain function more efficiently, leading to improved self-control. 

Improved Self-Control and Focus 

One of the most significant benefits of exercise is its ability to enhance self-control. For individuals with ADHD, activities like running, cycling, or even yoga can improve attention span and focus, which are crucial for reducing impulsivity. These activities teach the brain to stay focused on a task and respond in a controlled manner, which can translate into better impulse control in everyday situations. 

Stress Reduction and Emotional Regulation 

Exercise is a proven stress reliever, helping to regulate emotions that often contribute to impulsivity. When individuals with ADHD engage in regular physical activity, they experience a reduction in stress and anxiety levels, which are common triggers for impulsive behaviours. By incorporating physical exercise into their routines, individuals can develop healthier ways of managing emotional triggers that lead to impulsive actions. 

In conclusion, exercise and impulsivity go hand in hand when it comes to managing ADHD. Regular physical activity can improve impulse control, reduce ADHD symptoms, and help individuals manage their emotions more effectively. Incorporating exercise into daily life can be a simple yet powerful strategy for improving self-regulation and reducing impulsivity. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Impulsivity in ADHD.

Try an online ADHD test
Avery Lombardi, MSc
Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

Categories