People with higher cardiopulmonary function found to recover better from mental stress

A study of 40 healthy adults aged 18–40 found a link between higher cardiorespiratory fitness and better emotional resilience.

Participants with above-average fitness reported lower trait anxiety and smaller increases in anger and anxiety after viewing unpleasant images.

The findings suggest VO2max may reflect not only physical health but also stress recovery and mental well-being.

Researchers from the Federal University of Goiás in Brazil highlighted exercise habits as an important factor for both body and mind.