"Why You Might Cry at the Gym: Understanding Emotional Reactions During Workouts"

Even mega pop star Taylor Swift has admitted to being emotionally affected while exercising, referring to sobbing at the gym in one of her recently released tracks from her album The Tortured Poets Department.

Emotions can overcome us at any time, with some people even shedding tears during a workout. According to experts, this is not unusual and can occur more frequently than we might assume.

Brad Foltz, PhD, a sports psychologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, explained to Health that emotional releases can take place due to various stressful circumstances in one's life. Family-related tension, work pressures, or relationship changes are all potential triggers. He further stated that it's not harmful to experience emotional reactions during workouts.

Another sports psychologist, Matthew Sacco, PhD, from the Cleveland Clinic, indicates that there might be numerous reasons why one might become emotional while exercising. Positive feelings like happiness can also induce tears. He explained that even slight effort could lead to endorphin release, which can enhance moods. From this perspective, it makes sense why rigorous exercises could cause intense emotional experiences leading to crying.

If you repeatedly find yourself crying during workout sessions, some considerations are to be taken into account, such as ensuring you're mentally present to operate heavy gym equipment safely. Various experts have provided insights into why some people end up crying during their gym sessions and how to manage such experiences.

Stressful or challenging circumstances can sometimes invoke an emotional response, resulting in crying. Brad Foltz explains that when you're in the gym without distractions from devices, kids, or work, it can allow you to concentrate on your feelings. Sacco, adding to this, says the physical release from exercising can lead to an emotional release of suppressed or unresolved feelings.

Foltz also proposed that emotional reactions could be a response to trauma. For instance, the act of running might trigger painful memories in individuals who have had to flee from unsafe situations.

Crying in the gym isn't always linked to negative emotions. Research suggests that working out can enhance mood and reduce stress, which could, in some instances, lead to crying. Matthew Sacco suggests that feelings of accomplishment can also trigger emotional release while working out.

It's important to acknowledge and address emotions that surface during workouts, rather than ignoring them. If you find yourself sobbing, taking a break or reassessing the timing of your workout could be beneficial, especially if a specific stressor is prompting these feelings. Focusing on your exercises is essential to avoid potential injuries.

If you find yourself constantly crying during your gym sessions and can't pinpoint why, it could be helpful to consult a mental health professional to explore the underlying causes.

“If you’re having that strong of a reaction to exercise, speak with a psychologist [or other] professional,” Sacco said. They can help you work through whatever might be causing your emotions, and can help you develop a plan for working out safely.