Brits turn to exercise in lockdown to improve their mental health

 

A study shows Brits have turned to exercise to help their mental health during the coronavirus pandemic.

More than a third of all adults have exercised more in the past year than before, while almost half say they have kept active as a coping mechanism to preserve their mental wellbeing throughout the crisis. And while the majority of Brits say they work out to improve their body fitness and keep the weight off, almost as many now do it to keep their mind fit, according to research from active nutrition brand bulk.

Almost half say they plan to continue exercising more this year as the country still feels the effects of lockdown because an astounding 76% say it has a positive effect on their mental health and makes them happier people.

Before the first national lockdown in March, only 63% of exercising Brits saw improved mental health as a core benefit of exercise. That number has now risen to 72% and over half of Brits are now more likely to exercise for their mental health and wellbeing than they have in the past. Looking back at the lockdowns, 54% of Brits now say that the lockdowns have made them think more positively about exercising.