Not every step counts when it comes to improving mental health
A new study looking at the mental health benefits of exercise has shed fresh light on the ‘type’ of physical activity most likely to boost mood.
New research has found that exercise enjoyed during leisure time was more beneficial for mental health than physical activity performed while working.
Study leader Associate Professor Megan Teychenne said the findings, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, challenged the idea that any form of movement was good for our mental health.
‘While we know physical activity is essential for our physical health, this research tells us that the mental health benefits of exercise are more dependent on where and why we are active,’ Associate Professor Teychenne said.
‘Recreational exercise or the physical activity we do for fun and relaxation is most strongly associated with better mental health outcomes and a reduced risk of mental ill-health.
‘Exercise for transport purposes, such as walking to and from work or cycling to the shops, as well as housework, like cleaning the house or mowing the lawns, perhaps surprisingly, are also good for our mood.
‘But physical activity performed as part of our working day is linked to increased risk of mental ill-health, such as depressive or anxiety symptoms.
‘For example, nurses or builders who are typically very active at work may meet the World Health Organisation guidelines of 150 mins of moderate-intensity physical activity a week through their daily work-related activity.
‘But our findings show that while the physical activity they do throughout their working day may help them stay physically fit it may not be supporting their mental health.
‘It is important that people with physically active jobs don’t assume that their work-related activity is the only exercise they need to stay physically and mentally well.
‘Incorporating physical activity into their leisure time during the week will deliver the mood-enhancing benefits that are possible from physical activity.’
Associate Professor Teychenne said the research was the most comprehensive synthesis of evidence on this topic and analysed data from 372 studies, involving more than 3 million people, worldwide.
‘Rates of mental illness in Australia are increasing, with around half the population likely to experience a mental health condition in their lifetime,’ Associate Professor Teychenne said.
‘Exercise is a well-recognised strategy for mental health, but these findings tell us that not every step counts when it comes to supporting mental health.
‘We need to encourage the right activity to boost our mood and, where possible, prioritise physical activity as leisure activity, like going for a walk after work or during your lunchbreak, taking part in an exercise class or getting out for a weekend bushwalk with friends. These are more likely to improve our mental health and lower our risk of mental ill-health.’
Deakin Media release, 4 September 2025
