I think if you exercise your state of mind - my state of mind - is usually more at ease ready for more mental challenges. Once I get the physical stuff out of the way it always seems like I have more calmness and better self-esteem.
It's a very complex scenario and certainly Dave was and is not the only...
My Daddy liked physical fitness and wanted me to be a prizefighter.
That action is best which procures the greatest happiness for the greatest numbers.