If you’ve ever shot an event or spent a day running around with a camera, some lenses, a tripod and other stuff you know that photography can be great exercise. You feel it in your back and your legs.
That’s just the physical part. Photography also exercises your brain. The brain is like furnace, burning up glucose and other energy resources when it really gets going.
Working on finding shots and getting them right is all about attention, focus and concentration. You are doing mental calisthenics. Does it ever feel like your head is warming up when you really think? It probably is.
So the next time your hear that you should get more exercise, go take some pictures, lots of pictures.
It’s hard to describe to people how exhausting shooting can be. It’s challenging, both physically and mentally; as you stated. I can say the same for musicianship (which I also do as a drummer and percussionist). These things are huge drains on your body, but they are also wonderful ways to help you feel alive and excited; releasing all the right chemicals at the perfect time. There is nothing better than capturing amazing things while getting that exercise!