We’ve all heard the phrase ‘healthy body, healthy mind’, but have you ever stopped to think about why it’s so true? At Absolutely Fitness, we’re passionate about helping our members feel fantastic, and that goes beyond just physical gains. We know the gym floor is a place where you can build strength, improve endurance and feel great in your clothes, but it’s also a powerful tool for your mental wellbeing.
The link between fitness and mental health
Have you ever gone for a run or been active and felt great afterwards? Exercise is good for you; fitness boosting your mental health is not just a myth! When you’re active, your brain releases a mix of feel-good chemicals. These include endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood elevators, and endocannabinoids, which have a calming effect.
This chemical release is a key reason why exercise for mental wellness is so effective. It’s like your body’s own pharmacy, creating powerful mixtures that can lift your spirits and reduce feelings of stress and sadness. Regular physical activity can lead to a more balanced mood, helping to combat the daily ups and downs. Whether you’re going for a brisk walk, lifting weights in the gym, or taking part in a group fitness class, you’re not just working your body, you’re supporting your mental health too.
How exercise tackles anxiety
Many people who suffer from anxiety feel trapped in a cycle of worry and physical tension. This is where anxiety and exercise can be a game-changer. Fitness can help mental health in several ways:
- It reduces muscle tension: When we’re anxious, our muscles tense up. This is our body’s ‘fight or flight’ response. Exercise, particularly activities like yoga, stretching and even weightlifting, can help to release this physical tension, providing a sense of relief.
- It offers a distraction: Focusing on your workout, whether it’s the rhythm of your steps on a treadmill or the number of reps you’ve got left, provides a welcome break from anxious thoughts. It’s a form of moving meditation.
- It builds resilience: Pushing yourself to finish a challenging workout can build a sense of accomplishment. This feeling of ‘I can do this’ can then translate into other areas of your life, giving you more confidence to face stressful situations.
- It increases blood flow to the brain: Thiscan help improve mood, focus and concentration, making exercise for mental wellness ideal for anyone looking to manage stress or boost their mood.
The broader benefits
- Improved sleep: Struggling to switch off? Regular exercise can help regulate your sleep patterns, leading to deeper sleep. And we all know how much a good night’s rest can improve our mood and ability to cope with stress.
- Boosted self-esteem: Setting and achieving fitness goals, no matter how small, can give you a huge confidence boost. Whether it’s lifting a heavier weight, running a little further or simply showing up for a class, you’re proving to yourself you are capable and strong.
- Social connection: Joining a class or working out with a friend can provide a valuable social outlet. The community atmosphere at our Bracknell, Slough and Langley gyms means you’re never alone on your journey. Sharing the experience and encouraging each other can be very uplifting.
Mindfulness support with Hero Membership
Caring for your mental wellbeing doesn’t stop when you leave the gym. With the Absolutely Fitness member app, Hero Members get exclusive access to MindVibe, offering guided meditation and mindfulness tools to help you manage stress and improve focus. It’s the perfect complement to your workouts, helping you take care of both body and mind.
Your questions answered
How often should I exercise for mental health?
You don’t need to run marathons to see the benefits. Aim for around 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise, five times a week. This could be a brisk walk, a bike ride or a gym session. Consistency is more important than intensity, so find something you enjoy and can stick with.
What kind of exercise is best for mental health?
The best kind of exercise is the one you will actually do! A combination of cardio (like running or cycling) and strength training (using weights) is ideal. However, if you prefer something more mindful, activities like yoga and Pilates are fantastic for the body and mind.
Can exercise help with depression?
Yes, studies have shown exercise can be as effective as some medications or therapy in treating mild to moderate depression. However, it shouldn’t replace professional help, but it can be a powerful complement to it.
Ready to get started?
Taking that first step towards a more active lifestyle can feel daunting, but the team at Absolutely Fitness is here to support you. We believe caring for your physical health is one of the best things you can do for your mental health.
So, next time you feel stressed or overwhelmed, come on down to the gym. Your mind (and your body!) will thank you for it.
If you’re ready to get going with a new fitness journey, National Fitness Day takes place on Wednesday 24th September 2025, and we’re getting involved. Those who join one of our gyms between 2nd and 28th September 2025 will enjoy a 25% discount on membership payments until January 2026. You’ll also benefit from a free four-week fitness programme. Just click the ‘join now’ button between the dates and the offer will be there.
We look forward to seeing you in the gym!