Nearly three quarters of adults with mental health conditions say exercise helps them remain in work, yet only a small minority feel able to achieve recommended activity levels, according to a new report from physical activity industry body, ukactive.
The research, supported by mental health charity Mind, found that 72 per cent of people living with a mental health condition believe being active has helped them manage their health and reduced the likelihood of taking sick leave. Despite this, just 16 per cent said they meet the Chief Medical Officers’ guidance of 150 minutes of activity a week.
The report, Mental Health in Motion, highlights the gap between people’s desire to be active and the barriers preventing them from doing so. More than three in five (61 per cent) of respondents said they would join a gym if it were offered as a workplace benefit or at a discounted rate. More than half (52 per cent) felt their employer should provide access to fitness facilities.
The findings come ahead of National Fitness Day on 24 September, as the government faces growing pressure to address the UK’s mental health crisis. Workplace sickness reached 148.9 million days last year, costing the economy an estimated £103bn.
Huw Edwards, chief executive of ukactive, said physical activity is “a powerful tool” for people managing mental health conditions. He urged ministers to expand existing schemes such as Cycle to Work into a broader “Workout from Work” programme, covering gym memberships, fitness equipment and other activity options.
The survey, which polled more than 14,000 people between January 2024 and July 2025, also showed that swimming is a leading activity among those with mental health conditions, with 35 per cent taking part at least once a month. The prevalence of mental health problems was found to reduce among long-term gym members.
Alliance Leisure, sponsor of the report, said the research demonstrates the opportunity for employers and the fitness industry to close the gap between motivation and participation. Mind also called for greater government support to remove barriers to physical activity, especially for those facing financial strain.
With record membership of 11.5 million across UK health and fitness clubs, gyms and leisure centres are playing an increasing role in supporting people’s mental as well as physical health. Advocates say that simple measures – such as workplace discounts – could help make exercise part of everyday life rather than a luxury, improving wellbeing and strengthening the workforce.
