Good Stress vs. Bad Stress: What’s the Difference?
Sweat drips down your face. Your legs are burning. Your lungs are working overtime. You just finished another round of a tough CrossFit WOD, and now you’re staring down an 800-meter run… and another heavy lift.
You ask yourself: “Can I even finish this?”
Then—finally—you do. And afterward, you feel amazing: stronger, lighter, more alive. That rush? That’s not just adrenaline—it’s good stress at work.
In the fitness world and in life, not all stress is bad. Let’s break down the difference between good stress (eustress) and bad stress (distress)—and how you can harness one while managing the other.
💪 What Is Good Stress?
Good stress, also called eustress, is the kind of stress that motivates, energizes, and helps you grow. Think of it as your “ability +1”—just enough of a challenge to push you out of your comfort zone and improve performance.
You might feel good stress when you:
- Take on a tough WOD
- Start a new job or project
- Travel somewhere new
- Prepare for a competition or test
Benefits of Good Stress:
- Increases motivation and productivity
- Boosts focus and memory
- Improves brain function and cell growth
- Strengthens emotional resilience
Over time, consistent exposure to good stress can help your body and brain become more adaptable, preparing you for future challenges—both in and out of the gym.
😰 What Is Bad Stress?
Bad stress, or distress, happens when the pressure is too much—or lasts too long. It can leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or burned out.
Examples of bad stress include:
- Financial struggles
- Relationship problems
- Losing a loved one
- Toxic work environments
- Ongoing health issues
This kind of stress doesn’t help you grow—it drains your energy and can negatively affect your physical and mental health over time.
🧠 How to Handle Bad Stress
While you can’t always avoid distress, you can take steps to manage it. Here are a few strategies:
- Lean on your support system: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist
- Get regular exercise: Movement helps regulate stress hormones
- Sleep enough: Recovery and resilience begin with rest
- Practice self-care: Nutrition, hydration, mindfulness, and movement all help
Set healthy boundaries: Learn to say no when needed
🏋️♀️ At Mt. Tabor CrossFit, We Support the Whole You
At MTCF, we know that fitness isn’t just about muscle and movement—it’s also about community, confidence, and mental strength. That’s why we provide more than just workouts. We offer:
- A supportive, inclusive gym environment
- Personalized nutrition coaching
- Mental resilience through challenge-based training
- Connection and accountability through community
Want to Learn More?
➡️ Visit our Nutrition Coaching Page to learn how healthy eating can reduce stress.
