How Exercise Supports Mental Health

Mental health conditions are affecting millions of people worldwide. As a result, the search for effective, sustainable solutions continues to grow. While therapy and medication play important roles in treatment, research consistently highlights the significant impact of exercise on mental health. Exercise Physiology for Mental Health is a science-backed approach that uses structured physical activity to support emotional well-being, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive function.

Accredited Exercise Physiologists develop tailored programs that help individuals manage conditions such as anxiety, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases. By improving brain chemistry, regulating stress hormones, and enhancing overall physical function, exercise is emerging as a powerful tool for mental well-being.

If you or a loved one need additional mental health support, organisations like Beyond Blue offer free counselling services. Call 1300 22 4636 for assistance.

How Exercise Affects Brain Chemistry

The Science Behind Exercise Physiology for Mental Health

Physical activity influences brain chemistry by impacting the release and regulation of neurotransmitters involved in mood, motivation, and cognitive function. Moreover, exercise promotes the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with reward, pleasure, and motivation. This makes physical activity a crucial tool in supporting individuals experiencing depression or addiction, where dopamine levels may be out of normal range. Additionally, serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, is increased signifficantly through aerobic and resistance training. This is one strategy how exercise contributes to improved mood stability and emotional regulation. promoting exercise for mental health is clear seeing as these neurotransmitters are the main mechanisms of action for common medications for mental health conditions. 

Even more Exercise Science for Mental Health

From a neurological perspective, exercise enhances neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganise and form new neural connections – basically how your brain makes new highways. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and schizophrenia. Physical activity increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, which play a vital role in protecting our nerves and maintaining, or increasing cognitive function, and improving executive function. Furthermore, exercise modulates cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, preventing chronic over-activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which is often linked to anxiety disorders and stress-related conditions. Chemically and neurologically it makes it easy to see that exercise benefits mental health.Engaging in structured exercise triggers biological responses that improve mood, motivation, and cognitive function. Here’s how:

• Boosts dopamine and serotonin, enhancing mood stability and emotional resilience.
• Enhances neuroplasticity, forming new neural connections beneficial for neurodegenerative conditions.
• Regulates cortisol levels, reducing chronic stress and anxiety.

Mental Health Conditions That Benefit from Exercise Physiology

Depression

By no means are we suggesting that individuals should discontinue medication. However, exercise can serve as a highly effective adjunct therapy. In fact, the mood-boosting effects of exercise replicate many of the neuro-chemical benefits of antidepressants by increasing serotonin and dopamine availability.Exercise replicates many of the neuro-chemical benefits of antidepressants by increasing serotonin and dopamine levels. It also helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle, reduces inflammation, and improves self-esteem.
Recommended exercise: Aerobic workouts (walking, jogging, cycling) and resistance training.

Anxiety

Chronic anxiety is often linked to hyperactivity of the autonomic nervous system, leading to excessive arousal, restlessness, and heightened stress responses. Fortunately, exercise helps regulate the autonomic nervous system by promoting parasympathetic activity, reducing sympathetic overdrive, and stabilising arousal levels..
Recommended exercise: Yoga, Pilates, deep breathing exercises, and moderate-intensity aerobic activity.

Dementia, Parkinson’s Disease, and Schizophrenia

Exercise improves blood flow to the brain, reduces inflammation, and enhances balance, coordination, and functional movement.
Recommended exercise: Resistance training, balance exercises, and functional movements.

Addiction & Screen Overuse

Exercise aids in withdrawal management, improves impulse control, and restores balance to the brain’s reward system. Therefore, it is a valuable component of addiction recovery programs.
Recommended exercise: Outdoor activities, group training, and mindfulness-based movement.

📌 Related Read: How Exercise Physiology Helps Seniors Manage Chronic Conditions

The Role of Exercise Physiology for Mental Health Care

Why Work with an Accredited Exercise Physiologist?

An Exercise Physiologist (EP) designs individualised exercise plans tailored to mental and physical health needs. They use:

• Personalised programs suited to specific conditions and capabilities.
• Ongoing support and motivation through structured assessments.
• Graded exercise therapy to prevent fatigue and improve energy levels.

Best Exercises for Mental Health

• Aerobic Exercise: Walking, cycling, swimming, and jogging improve mood and stress management.
• Strength Training: Bodyweight exercises and resistance training enhance cognitive function and resilience.
• Mind-Body Exercises: Yoga, tai chi, and Pilates help regulate breathing and relaxation.
• Outdoor and Group Activities: Hiking, team sports, and outdoor fitness classes increase social connections and exposure to nature.

📌 Related Read: SMART Health Goals for 2025

How to Reduce Stress and Anxiety with Exercise Physiology

• Stay consistent—small, regular activity is better than occasional intense exercise.
• Choose activities you enjoy to improve adherence and long-term success.
• Use mindful movement to regulate stress responses.
• Seek professional guidance for a structured and effective plan.

Overcoming Barriers to Exercise for Mental Health

Many individuals struggle with motivation, fatigue, or physical limitations. An EP can help by:

• Using motivational strategies to encourage participation.
• Gradually increasing activity levels to prevent burnout.
• Providing structured accountability for long-term progress.

Conclusion: Improve Mental Health with Exercise Physiology

Exercise is a proven tool for managing mental health conditions. Moreover with the guidance of an Accredited Exercise Physiologist, individuals can build sustainable habits that enhance mood, resilience, and cognitive function.

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health challenges, consider structured physical activity with professional support.

📞 Book a session today with Body Mechanics and Function to start your journey toward better mental well-being.

📌 For immediate mental health support, call Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636.