Leg exercises, particularly squats, provide greater mental well-being and cognitive clarity than other types of exertion, likely due to the engagement of large muscle groups.

noli's read

The community is converging on the idea that the intensity associated with the large muscles of the legs triggers a positive mental state. Science confirms that physical exercise, particularly resistance training, stimulates the release of beneficial molecules such as BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which is essential for cognitive health, as indicated by several meta-analyses on physical activity and cerebral plasticity. The idea that the legs, as large muscles, induce a more pronounced hormonal or circulatory response is plausible but often exaggerated in its specificity: the body reacts globally to intense exertion, rather than exclusively through the lower body muscles. While observational studies (e.g., Steves et al., 2016) show a link between leg power and the preservation of cognitive function over the long term, attributing an immediate feeling of clarity solely to the squat is a simplified interpretation. Finally, the perceived benefits also stem from complex mechanisms such as regulation of the nervous system and the release of endorphins, although the exact role of post-exercise testosterone as a factor for immediate mental well-being remains a popular hypothesis unsupported by robust evidence for this specific application.

the sources

1. 1r/bodyweightfitness