Being distracted during exercise can actually lead to a better mood. Unless you’re not paying attention to what you’re doing and you drop a dumbbell on my foot, then none of us will be happy. However, when used in conjunction with cardiovascular activities, a distraction such as television or music can elicit a better mood than exercise alone. I’m sure anyone who has ever forgotten their headphones during a cardio session would agree.
According to a study by St. Bonaventure University in 2014, participants who were distracted during their exercise felt a lower rate of perceived exertion (RPE) and felt they could participate in the activity longer than there non-distracted counterparts. They also reported a higher mood than their peers after the exercise was completed. It is theorized that this stems from the duplication in the brain’s reward center; both the endorphins from exercise, and the dopamine from the distraction.
Frankly, I’m open to anything that makes cardio more enjoyable. Give it a try, and tell us your thoughts!